Following the recent incident in Odigbo Local Government Area that claimed 25 lives, the Ondo State Government has warned residents against consuming unapproved substances, herbal drinks, concoctions and other products not certified as safe for human consumption.
The government, however, said investigations were still ongoing to establish the actual cause of the deaths, urging residents to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the government said the safety, health and wellbeing of residents remained key priorities of the administration.
It urged members of the public to exercise utmost caution and avoid patronising or consuming substances of doubtful origin.
Government also warned sellers, producers and distributors of uncertified substances to immediately stop such activities, noting that the production, sale and distribution of unapproved products posed serious risks to public health and could attract sanctions under existing laws.
Residents, particularly youths, were further cautioned against drug abuse and the unauthorised use or consumption of substances capable of causing serious health complications or death.
The government advised residents to obtain medicines and other consumable products only from authorised and regulated outlets and to seek professional medical advice rather than resorting to unverified remedies or substances.
It said relevant government agencies were working diligently to unravel the circumstances surrounding the Odigbo incident and determine what led to the deaths.
Government also commended the Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area, Taiwo Adegboye, for his prompt intervention and support for efforts to protect the lives and wellbeing of residents following the incident.
According to the government, necessary measures were being taken to safeguard public health and prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
It reiterated its warning to residents, vendors, producers and distributors against drug abuse and the unauthorised production, sale, distribution or consumption of illegal and uncertified substances.
The government said it would continue to take appropriate measures in accordance with existing laws and regulations to protect the health and safety of citizens.
Residents were also encouraged to promptly report suspicious activities involving the production, sale or distribution of dangerous, illegal or unapproved substances to the appropriate authorities.
The government stressed that protecting lives and promoting a safe and healthy society remained a collective responsibility requiring the cooperation of all residents.
