Ondo State Health Commissioner Banji Ajaka said several people who fell ill after consuming the drink have since been discharged from hospitals. Health officials have continued monitoring those affected following the suspected methanol poisoning incident.
Ajaka said the substance could cause severe and potentially fatal damage to vital organs, depending on the quantity consumed. Methanol poisoning can affect the kidneys, eyes and brain and can lead to death.
The incident has triggered a police investigation, with Ondo State police spokesman Abayomi Jimoh saying 15 people had been arrested in connection with the case.
According to the police, one of those arrested had been producing the drink suspected of containing methanol and was assisting investigators with the probe. Authorities are investigating how the suspected methanol-contaminated drink was produced and distributed.
Local media reports said the first death in the incident was reported nearly two weeks ago. The investigation is now focused on the circumstances surrounding the production and distribution of the suspected contaminated drink.
Health officials have urged people to avoid consuming unidentified or illegally produced alcoholic or other beverages as authorities continue monitoring those affected and investigating the incident.
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