Oyo State Police Command has confirmed that five worshippers have died while several others have been hospitalised after a ‘love feast’ in a church in Ibadan.
The command’s public relations officer, Adewale Oyefeso, a Superintendent of Police, said an ongoing investigation was ongoing.
It was gathered that the five worshippers were confirmed dead. In contrast, others were admitted at the Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo area, after taking part in a Yoruba parlance feast as ‘ipese’ organised by an Ibadan-based white-garment church.
However, it was gathered that about 50 of the worshippers had been discharged from the centre.
A source disclosed that the incident happened during a service held in the church last Sunday.
The feast, otherwise known as ipese, was part of the traditional events in conformity with the church’s doctrine.
A source in the church said that it had not been established medically whether the ipese was responsible for the death of the affected victims.
He said, “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 we are made to believe.
“The various organs of government, including the police, Directorate of State Services (DSS), media organisations, and 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. Indeed, 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 preferred anonymity, confirmed the incident.
He said 50 of the victims who were rushed to the IDC have been treated and discharged.
He said, “Some of the affected persons were brought to the centre for treatment. As of today (Saturday), 50 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”.
