Tragedy as five Worshippers feared dead after eating ipese at Church
Not less than Five worshippers have been confirmed dead and several others hospitalised at the Infectious Disease Centre in Olodo, Ibadan, Oyo State, following a feast known as “ipese” organised by a local white-garment church in Ibadan which they partook in.
As of Saturday, approximately 50 worshippers have been discharged from the facility.
The incident reportedly occurred during a service last Sunday.
The “ipese”, a traditional event aligned with the church’s practices, is believed to have been part of the service.
Church sources who spoke with Nigerian Tribune, indicate that it remains unclear whether the feast is directly linked to the deaths of those affected.
However, medical investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fatalities.
According to the church source: “I ate the prepared beans like every other member, including the victims and nothing happened to me.
“The incident was not all about ‘ipese’ as made to believe.
“The various organs of government, including the police, Directorate of State Services, (DSS), media organisations, World Health Organisation (WHO) have been to this place on a fact-finding mission.
“Their findings are yet to be made public, but I can tell you that it is not about ipese as being insinuated.
“It is true that some victims are still undergoing treatment at IDC Olodo.
“Also, there is no iota of truth in the rumour that the church premises have been put under lock and key.
“The Shepherd-in-Charge has been attending to visitors since morning. He is taking his test. You can’t see him now unless you come tomorrow during the service.”
Also, a senior medical staff at IDC Olodo, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident.
He said: “Some of the affected persons were brought to the centre for treatment. As of today (Saturday), 50 of them have been discharged while others are still on admission.
“The state commissioner for health is likely to address the press on the incident next week.”
The police spokesperson however revealed that investigations are still on concerning the incident.
