JUST IN: Ondo ‘Monkey Tail’ toxic drink death toll rises to 49

The death toll from the suspected consumption of toxic alcoholic drinks and locally produced herbal concoctions known as ‘Monkey Tail’ in Ondo State has risen to 49.

The latest figure represents an increase from the 38 deaths initially recorded in Odigbo Local Government Area of the state, reported by The Nation.

The Commissioner for Health in the State, Dr Banji Ajaka, who disclosed this on Wednesday night, said the number of affected persons has now climbed to 170.

He explained that the latest deaths were recorded in Irele Local Government Area of the state, where eight persons have died from suspected poisoning.