49 dead in Nigeria's Ondo State after suspected methanol poisoning

At least 49 people have died and more than 100 have been hospitalized in Nigeria’s Ondo state after consuming a locally brewed herbal beverage suspected of containing methanol. Authorities identified “Monkey Shoulder,” a high‑alcohol content drink, as the likely source of the poisoning, though laboratory confirmation is still pending. The incident, which unfolded over the past few days, prompted a rapid response from state health officials and emergency services as victims presented with symptoms typical of methanol toxicity, including visual disturbances and respiratory distress.

State police have detained 15 individuals believed to be involved in the production and distribution of the drink, and an investigation is ongoing to determine the extent of the supply chain and any regulatory breaches. Officials have warned the public against consuming unregulated alcoholic products while they continue to trace the origins of the contaminated batch. The story was reported by Clemence Waller.