The Ondo State Government has warned residents against consuming unapproved substances, herbal drinks and concoctions following the recent deaths reported in Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
The government also cautioned producers, sellers and distributors of uncertified substances to stop the practice, warning that such activities pose serious risks to public health and could attract sanctions under the law.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, gave the warning in a statement, stressing that the safety and wellbeing of residents remain priorities of the administration.
Ajanaku urged residents to exercise caution and avoid patronising substances of doubtful origin, particularly products that have not been certified safe for human consumption.
He also warned citizens, especially youths, against drug abuse and the unauthorised consumption of substances capable of causing serious health complications or death.
According to him, residents should obtain medicines and other consumable products only from authorised and regulated outlets and seek professional medical advice rather than relying on unverified remedies.
The government said it was investigating the Odigbo incident to determine the actual cause of the reported deaths, assuring residents that relevant agencies were working to establish what happened.
It appealed to members of the public to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information that could create unnecessary panic.
The statement also commended the Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area, Hon. Taiwo Adegboye, for his prompt intervention and support for efforts to protect residents following the incident.
The government reiterated that it would take appropriate measures, in line with existing laws and regulations, against the production, sale and distribution of illegal or uncertified substances.
It further urged residents to report suspicious activities involving the production, sale or distribution of dangerous or unapproved substances to relevant authorities, stressing that protecting lives and ensuring a healthy society required collective responsibility.