At least 48 people have died and about 100 others are receiving treatment in southern Nigeria after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic concoction suspected to contain methanol, officials said on Thursday. Banji Ajaka, Ondo state’s commissioner for health, confirmed the cases had been reported in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas. A total of 182 people are believed to have been affected, with some being treated in the hospital.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of locally produced alcohol, which is common in Nigeria, especially in rural areas where it is more affordable and poorly regulated. Sola Adebayo, a 32-year-old victim, told local TVC News channel from a hospital bed that he consumed two shots on Friday and began experiencing vision problems on Saturday. Health officials warned that methanol poisoning can cause rapid kidney failure, blindness, and brain damage.

Ondo state police spokesperson Abayomi Jimoh stated that 15 people were arrested in connection with the incident, including one allegedly involved in the production of substances suspected to contain methanol. The individual is currently assisting the police with investigations. Locals suspect a popular herbal drink with high alcohol content, known as 'Monkey Tail,' was mixed with methanol, leading to the deaths. A trader in Odigbo, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed there are two versions of Monkey Tail: an original, safe version, and another version which is unsafe.

The first death was reported nearly two weeks ago, according to local media. Nigeria’s National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has now enforced a nationwide ban on alcohol in sachets and small plastic containers, citing their accessibility to children and young people.

The incident highlights the risks associated with unregulated alcohol production and the challenges of enforcing safety standards in regions with limited resources. While the government has taken steps to ban certain forms of alcohol distribution, the underlying issue of unsafe brewing practices remains unresolved. Further investigation is needed to determine the exact cause of the poisoning and to hold those responsible accountable.

What remains unknown is the full extent of the contamination, the number of people who may have consumed the unsafe drink, and the long-term health effects on survivors. The government has not yet released detailed information on the investigation or the legal proceedings against those arrested. The situation underscores the need for stronger regulatory frameworks and public awareness campaigns to prevent similar incidents in the future.