The Nigerian regulatory agency NAFDAC has confirmed a lethal connection between locally brewed herbal drinks and a growing death toll in Ondo State. Preliminary findings point to dangerous levels of methanol and cannabis indica in beverages that have left 48 people dead and dozens more ill.

Introduction

Health officials revealed that the fatalities stem from unregulated herbal concoctions consumed across several communities in Ondo State. The investigation, made public on Friday, identified two potent substances — methanol and cannabis indica — in drinks that have caused widespread harm.

What Happened

The incidents originated in Odigbo Local Government Area and later spread to Irele Local Government. Victims reported headache, severe body weakness, visual disturbances, difficulty breathing, and altered consciousness after consuming the unregulated mixtures. As of mid-September 2026, authorities recorded 182 illnesses, including seven cases of blindness — five total and two partial — while 90 patients were admitted and discharged, 31 treated as outpatients, and six remaining hospitalized.

Why This Matters

This outbreak underscores the severe risks of consuming unregulated, locally produced alcoholic and herbal mixtures about which the public receives little to no safety information. The presence of methanol, known to cause organ failure and death, combined with cannabis indica, raises urgent concerns about consumer protection and the enforcement of food and drug standards. NAFDAC's response brings attention to the need for stricter oversight of informal beverage production and greater public awareness.

Key Takeaways

  • NAFDAC testing of 15 unlabelled samples found 11 positive for cannabis indica, and gas chromatography confirmed high methanol concentrations in multiple specimens.
  • Acute oral toxicity tests on laboratory mice showed approximately 50 percent mortality in six of the samples, indicating significant toxic potential.
  • Fifteen individuals have been arrested on suspicion of producing, selling, and distributing the implicated beverages.
  • Ongoing surveillance, case management, and risk-control measures are being implemented across affected communities in coordination with public health authorities.
  • NAFDAC has issued a strong warning against purchasing or consuming unlicensed, unregistered, and locally prepared alcoholic or herbal concoctions of unknown composition.

Conclusion

The Ondo State incident serves as a sobering reminder of the hidden dangers present in unregulated traditional and herbal drinks. NAFDAC continues to urge anyone experiencing sudden visual disturbances, severe headache, difficulty breathing, or altered consciousness after consuming such substances to seek medical care immediately. While regulatory action progresses, public vigilance remains the most effective defense against preventable tragedy.