The Ondo State Government has confirmed 48 deaths linked to the consumption of a local alcoholic drink suspected to contain methanol.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, disclosed the figure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Akure on Thursday.
Ajaka said 182 cases had so far been reported at medical facilities across Odigbo and Irele Local Government Areas.
According to the commissioner, Irele Local Government Area has emerged as the latest flashpoint in the incident.
He identified Idogun and Gbogunron as the two affected communities in the area.
Ajaka said preliminary findings had linked the deaths to substances suspected to contain methanol.
“The source of the death is linked to consumption of suspected methanol. The urine sample from the victims is pointing at suspected methanol,” he said.
However, health authorities have not concluded their investigation into the source of the suspected toxic substance.
“We are still looking for the source of consumption in the two communities in Irele Local Government Area,” Ajaka said.
The Ondo State Government has strengthened its response through collaboration with federal and state agencies.
The response involves the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, World Health Organisation, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Department of State Services and the Police.
The Amotekun Corps and relevant local government authorities are also participating in the response.
Ajaka said the multi-agency effort was focused on identifying the source of the suspected contamination.
It is also aimed at containing the incident and preventing additional deaths in affected communities.
The Ondo alcohol poisoning incident has prompted increased surveillance by health authorities across the affected areas.
Methanol is a toxic form of alcohol that can cause severe poisoning and death when consumed.
The latest figures represent an increase from the number previously announced by the state government.
Ajaka had earlier confirmed 29 deaths in communities within Odigbo Local Government Area during a news conference.
The government is continuing investigations while health authorities monitor developments in the affected communities.
