The Ondo State Government has warned residents against consuming unapproved substances, herbal drinks, concoctions and other products not certified safe for human consumption following a recent incident in Odigbo Local Government Area of ​​the state, which reportedly resulted in loss of life.
The Government, in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku on Thursday urged the public to exercise utmost caution and desist from patronizing or consuming substances of dubious origin.
“The Government urges the public to exercise utmost caution and desist from patronizing or consuming substances of dubious origin, highlighting that the safety, health and well-being of the people remain key priorities of the current administration,” the statement reads.
The government also warned sellers, producers and distributors of uncertified substances to immediately desist from such practices, stating that the production, sale and distribution of unapproved substances pose serious risks to public health and may attract appropriate penalties under the law.
READ ALSO: Trump will give every American adult $5,000 if Republicans win the midterms
The statement further warned citizens, particularly young people, against drug abuse and the unauthorized use or consumption of substances capable of causing serious health complications or death, and urged residents to obtain medicines and other consumable products only from authorized and regulated outlets.
On the Odigbo incident, the government said investigations were underway to determine the actual cause of the deaths, and called on residents to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic.
“The government is currently investigating the Odigbo incident to establish the actual cause of the deaths. Assuring the people of Ondo State that the relevant government agencies are working diligently to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The commissioner commended the Chairman of Odigbo Local Government Area, Hon. Taiwo Adegboye for his intervention following the incident, assuring residents that the state government is taking necessary measures to safeguard public health and prevent recurrence of such incidents.
“The Government will continue to take appropriate measures, in accordance with current laws and regulations, to protect the health and safety of citizens,” the statement added.
The government also urged residents to report suspicious activities involving the production, sale or distribution of dangerous, illegal or unapproved substances to the appropriate authorities.
WATCH THE BEST VIDEOS FROM Newslodge TV