The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has confirmed high levels of methanol in locally prepared alcoholic and herbal concoctions linked to a spate of deaths in Ondo State.
The agency said laboratory analysis found dangerous concentrations of methanol in samples of the beverages suspected to have been consumed by some of the victims.
NAFDAC said the affected products were locally produced and distributed as alcoholic or herbal concoctions, raising concerns over the potential health risks associated with their consumption.
The agency also disclosed that 15 people had been arrested in connection with the suspected production, sale and distribution of the implicated drinks.
Methanol is a toxic form of alcohol that can cause serious poisoning, including blindness, organ damage and death, when consumed.
NAFDAC said investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the deaths and identify others who may be involved in the production and distribution of the products.
The agency urged members of the public to avoid consuming unregistered alcoholic beverages and herbal concoctions of unknown origin, particularly products sold without proper labelling or regulatory approval.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the affected areas as investigations into the suspected methanol poisoning continue.
