Canadian authorities have advised citizens in Nigeria to be careful when consuming alcohol due to reports of deaths and hospitalisations connected to suspected methanol-contaminated drinks in Ondo State.

In a safety notice issued on Tuesday, Canadian officials said, “Casualties have occurred in Nigeria due to the consumption of unregulated and adulterated alcohol containing high levels of methanol. Buy alcohol from reputable establishments and seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick.”

Last week, Nigerian health officials reported that 48 individuals had lost their lives, while approximately 180 others were undergoing treatment after ingesting a locally brewed alcoholic beverage suspected to be laced with methanol.

Methanol is a dangerous toxicant capable of causing failure of multiple organs, respiratory issues, blindness, and cerebral damage. Sola Adebayo, a 32-year-old survivor recovering in hospital, shared with TVC News, "I took two shots on Friday, and the next day, I couldn’t see.”

Banji Ajaka, the Ondo State Commissioner for Health, explained that adverse effects can manifest swiftly, stating, "The symptoms emerge quickly. Depending on how much is consumed, the kidneys may shut down, vision can be lost, and brain injury might occur."

Authorities revealed the arrest of 15 individuals linked to the suspected toxic alcohol. Locals alleged that a popular herbal spirit, known as “Monkey Tail,” was adulterated with methanol.

The report highlighted that illicit homemade alcohol is prevalent in Nigeria’s rural areas, where production is less regulated and more affordable. To combat this, NAFDAC has implemented a national ban on alcohol sales in sachets and small plastic bottles.

ASA