By The Ondo State Government has confirmed the deaths of 24 people across two communities in Odigbo Local Government Area following the consumption of a herbal liquid substance, with officials still awaiting autopsy results to determine the exact cause of death.
What Happened
The deaths occurred Saturday across Araromi Obu and Odigbo town, plunging both communities into mourning. According to a source in the area, victims consumed the substance at different locations before becoming unconscious and later dying, some in their sleep and others shortly after returning home. Eight people died in Araromi Obu and 16 in Odigbo town, while several others who also consumed the substance were rushed to hospital and remain there. The source said that while it had not yet been formally confirmed that the herbal drink caused the deaths, there was little doubt that all the victims had consumed it beforehand.
Local Government Confirms Toll, Awaits Test Results
Odigbo Local Government Chairman Taiwo Adegoroye confirmed the death toll in a telephone interview, putting the figures at eight in Araromi Obu and 16 in Odigbo town, with additional victims still hospitalised. He said the local government was awaiting a team from the state Ministry of Health to carry out tests on the deceased before the actual cause of death could be confirmed, and said a preliminary verbal autopsy conducted by the local health team had indicated a possible link between the deaths and consumption of the substance, though this had not yet been formally established.
As a precaution, Adegoroye said he had banned the sale and consumption of locally brewed alcoholic drinks in the area pending the outcome of investigations.
State Health Commissioner Responds
Ondo State Commissioner for Health Dr Banji Ajaka also confirmed the incident by phone, saying investigations were underway to determine the actual cause of the deaths. Ajaka did not disclose which specific substance was suspected of causing the fatalities, but said medical and health officials would carry out further assessments in the affected communities. He said the state government was treating the matter seriously and would share further details once its investigation had established the full circumstances surrounding the deaths.
Community Reaction
Some youths in the area staged a brief protest at the palace of the Odigbo traditional ruler, demanding answers and urgent action to prevent further deaths. Addressing them, Oba Rufus Akinrinmade appealed for calm and assured residents that efforts were underway to determine the circumstances behind the tragedy and find a lasting solution.
