A devastating incident occurred at a white-garment church in Ibadan after members ate the church´s `ipese´, a spiritually made meal, resulting in the deaths of five worshippers and leaving several others hospitalized.
The “Ipese” church feast, held during a Sunday service, has raised concerns about its safety.
Approximately 50 worshippers have been discharged from the Infectious Disease Centre (IDC) in Olodo, Oyo State, after receiving medical care.
The cause of the deaths remains unconfirmed, with investigations underway by the police, Directorate of State Services (DSS), and World Health Organization (WHO).
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A church source revealed that the situation is being thoroughly investigated, cautioning against attributing the incident solely to the “Ipese” feast. “I ate the same prepared beans as the victims, and nothing happened to me,” the source said.
Officials have visited the church for fact-finding missions, but their findings have not been made public. The church premises remain operational, with the Shepherd-in-Charge cooperating with investigations.
A senior medical staff member at IDC Olodo confirmed that 50 patients have been treated and discharged, with others still receiving care. The state commissioner for health is expected to address the press about the incident next week.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the incident and stated that investigations are ongoing.