At least 48 people have died while more than 100 others have been hospitalised in several communities in Ondo State after consuming a locally produced alcoholic drink contaminated with methanol.

The incident has plunged affected communities into mourning as families continue to grapple with the loss of their loved ones. Several victims reportedly developed severe symptoms after consuming the drink and were rushed to various health facilities for treatment.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) confirmed that samples of the suspected alcoholic beverage tested positive for methanol, a highly toxic substance that can cause serious poisoning, blindness and death when consumed.

Authorities have commenced efforts to identify the source and circulation of the contaminated drink, while health officials have urged residents to stop consuming the suspected product and report anyone experiencing symptoms associated with methanol poisoning.

The development has also raised fresh concerns about the dangers of unregulated alcoholic beverages, particularly locally produced drinks whose contents and production processes may not have undergone the required safety checks.

Residents in affected communities have been advised to remain vigilant and seek urgent medical attention following any suspected exposure, as early treatment can be critical in cases of toxic alcohol poisoning.