The NMA-NAFDAC Liaison Committee has confirmed that high levels of methanol in a local alcoholic concoction known as ‘monkey tail’ were responsible for recent deaths and illnesses recorded in parts of Ondo State.

The committee disclosed this in an update on Tuesday, citing laboratory findings by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC.

According to the committee, samples collected from Odigbo, Irele and neighbouring local government areas contained high concentrations of methanol and Cannabis indica.

It said 182 people were affected, with 48 deaths recorded, while five victims suffered permanent blindness and two others experienced partial loss of vision.

The committee explained that methanol is an industrial solvent that is not intended for human consumption. When ingested, it is metabolised by the liver into formic acid, which can damage the optic nerve and retinal cells.

According to the committee, methanol poisoning can result in irreversible blindness, severe metabolic acidosis, multi-organ failure and death.

It said affected persons presented with symptoms including severe headache, abdominal pain, general weakness, altered consciousness, breathing difficulties and blurred or “snowfield” vision after consuming the drink.

The committee advised healthcare providers in Ondo and neighbouring states to maintain a high index of suspicion when treating patients who develop sudden visual impairment or unexplained metabolic acidosis after consuming local alcoholic or herbal mixtures.

It called for prompt resuscitation, airway management, correction of acidosis, administration of appropriate antidotes and urgent haemodialysis where indicated.

The committee also urged health workers to immediately report suspected cases to relevant health authorities and NAFDAC.

While acknowledging the arrest of 15 suspects, the committee called for a wider crackdown on informal distilleries, illegal herbal mixture blenders and open-market distribution networks.

It further called for nationwide sensitisation against the consumption of unlabelled and unregistered alcoholic beverages, as well as stricter control of methanol supplies to prevent diversion into beverage production.