The Ondo State government has announced an immediate ban on the sale and distribution of all unverified alcoholic drinks and substances across the state.

 

Hon Idowu Ajanaku, Commissioner for Information and Orientation in a statement issued on Saturday in Akure said the emergency directive follows the tragic deaths of approximately 30 people in the Odigbo local government area, which have been linked to the consumption of unregulated beverages.

The ban affects all unapproved alcoholic products, including those sold in sachets and bottles. According to state officials, the drastic measure is necessary to prevent further loss of life and contain the health crisis before it spreads to other parts of the state.

In response to the tragedy, the State Ministry of Health has deployed scientific officers to the affected communities in Odigbo. These teams are conducting field investigations and laboratory tests to identify the exact toxic substance responsible for the fatalities.

Government officials have strongly urged residents to stop purchasing or consuming any drinks that lack registration from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Local traders, distributors, and vendors have also been warned to immediately stop selling unverified products.

Security agencies have been mandated to enforce the directive swiftly. The government stated that anyone found violating the ban or distributing illegal, unapproved substances will face strict legal consequences.