Strange, sudden death hit two towns in Odigbo Council Area of Ondo State after 24 people died in a day with many others hospitalised.
The incident, which happened over the weekend, has continued to generate reactions and youths now take over the place to protest the irreplaceable losses in their communities. They marched to the palace of traditional ruler of Araromi Obu, Oba Rufus Akinrinmade, calling for immediate remedy so more people won’t die.
The two communities affected are Odigbo town where 16 people died, and Araromi Obu with 8 deaths. Some died in their home, while many others died in their sleep, sources said.
It was suspected that the deaths were caused by poisonous sachet herbal concoctions. And this was confirmed.
According to the Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Ayodele Adiji, preliminary findings linked the incident to consumption of locally brewed alcoholic drinks. Laboratory analysis – based on samples collected – is ongoing and authorities would soon pinpoint a direct connection, Adiji promised.
The Chairman of Odigbo local government area, Hon. Taiwo Adegoroye and the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, have also reacted, promising quick responses in order to unravel the actual cause of the death.