At least 24 people have died in southwestern Nigeria’s Ondo State after allegedly consuming a herbal liquid substance, local officials have confirmed.
The deaths occurred across two communities—Araromi Obu and Odigbo town—in the Odigbo Local Government Area over the weekend.
Eight people died in Araromi Obu and 16 in Odigbo town after drinking the substance on Saturday, according to local council chairman Taiwo Adegoroye. Several others remain hospitalized.
“Some of the people died in their sleep, while others died when they got home,” a resident said, adding that those affected became unconscious shortly after consuming the drink.
In response, local authorities have banned the sale and consumption of locally brewed alcoholic and herbal drinks in the area as a precaution.
Ondo State Commissioner for Health Dr Banji Ajaka said an investigation is underway, with medical teams deployed to conduct autopsies and establish the exact cause of death.
The incident sparked brief protests by local youths, prompting the traditional ruler of Odigbo, Oba Rufus Akinrinmade, to appeal for calm while authorities investigate.
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