Ondo residents warned against herbal concoctions after 25 deaths

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ondo State Government has warned residents against consuming unapproved herbal mixtures and other uncertified substances following the mysterious deaths of 25 people in Odigbo Local Government Area.

The government said it had commenced an investigation into the incident to determine the actual cause of the deaths, while urging residents to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information capable of causing panic.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, who stressed that the government would not tolerate the production, sale or distribution of substances considered unsafe for human consumption.

Ajanaku advised residents to obtain medicines and other consumable products only from authorised outlets and seek professional medical attention instead of relying on remedies whose safety and composition could not be established.

He particularly cautioned youths against drug abuse and the unauthorised use of substances capable of causing serious health complications or death, adding that those involved in producing or distributing dangerous products could face sanctions under the law.

The commissioner said relevant government agencies were working to unravel the circumstances surrounding the deaths and prevent a recurrence, while appealing to residents to report suspicious activities involving dangerous or unapproved substances to the appropriate authorities.

The state government also commended the Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area, Hon. Taiwo Adegboye, for his prompt response to the incident and support for measures aimed at protecting residents.

Ajanaku reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and public health, urging vendors, producers, distributors and consumers to shun uncertified substances and cooperate with authorities investigating the incident.