48 Dead in Ondo From Herbal Drink Linked to Methanol

At least 48 people have died in Ondo State's Odigbo and Irele areas after drinking a local herbal alcohol suspected to contain methanol, a toxic chemical sometimes mixed into bootleg liquor, officials said Sept. 18, 2026. Health commissioner Banji Ajaka said 182 were affected, with about 100 in treatment. Locals blame a high-alcohol drink called 'Monkey Tail.'