Nearly 50 dead in Nigeria after methanol-tainted local alcohol poisoning

A deadly outbreak of poisoning has been reported in southern Nigeria after dozens of residents consumed a locally brewed alcoholic drink that authorities suspect was contaminated with methanol. Health officials confirmed that at least 48 people have died and roughly 100 others are receiving medical treatment, bringing the total number of affected individuals to 182. The cases were identified in the Odigbo and Irele local government areas of Ondo State, where the state commissioner for health, Banji Ajaka, said the incident underscores the risks associated with unregulated, inexpensive home‑produced spirits that are widely consumed in rural communities.

The Ministry of Health has mobilized hospitals in the region to treat the victims and is investigating the source of the contaminated brew. While locally made alcohol remains a common and affordable beverage across Nigeria’s countryside, limited oversight and lax enforcement of safety standards have raised concerns about the prevalence of hazardous adulterants such as methanol. Officials urge the public to exercise caution when purchasing homemade drinks and have pledged to strengthen regulatory measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.