The Canadian Government has warned its citizens in Nigeria to exercise caution and avoid consuming unregulated or locally produced alcoholic beverages following reported deaths linked to suspected methanol poisoning in Ondo State.
In a safety notice issued on Tuesday, Canadian authorities advised citizens to purchase alcohol only from reputable establishments and seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms after drinking. The advisory followed a reported incident in Ondo State, where Nigerian health officials said 48 people had died while about 180 others were receiving treatment after consuming a locally brewed alcoholic beverage suspected to contain methanol.
The affected cases were reported in Odigbo and Irele Local Government Areas of Ondo State.
The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka, said the effects of the suspected poisoning could develop rapidly, with severe damage to the kidneys, eyes and brain occurring after consumption.
Meanwhile, the police said 15 people had been arrested in connection with the suspected toxic drink.
Residents reportedly identified a popular herbal alcoholic beverage known as “Monkey Tail” as the drink suspected of being contaminated with methanol.
The report noted that locally produced alcohol remains common in some rural communities in Nigeria because it is cheaper and less regulated.
The development also comes amid the enforcement of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control’s (NAFDAC) nationwide ban on alcoholic drinks sold in sachets and small plastic containers.
Following the reported incident, the Canadian Government advised its citizens and other travellers in Nigeria to avoid unregulated or locally produced alcoholic drinks.
Travellers were encouraged to purchase alcoholic beverages only from licensed and reputable establishments to reduce the risk of consuming contaminated products.
The advisory also urged anyone who develops symptoms of illness after consuming local alcohol to seek immediate medical attention.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
