At least five worshippers have reportedly died, and several others are receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Centre (IDC) in Olodo, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, after allegedly consuming a traditional meal known as ‘Ipese’ during a feast organized by a white-garment church.
The incident occurred last Sunday during a service at the church, although many of the affected worshippers have since been discharged from the hospital.
The ‘Ipese’ meal, a significant part of the church’s traditional feast in accordance with its doctrine, is believed by some to be linked to the deaths. However, an unnamed source within the church denied that the meal was the cause, saying, “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 source also noted that various government agencies, including the police, DSS, and even the World Health Organization (WHO), have visited the church for a fact-finding mission. Their official findings are yet to be made public.
The Shepherd-in-Charge of the church has been attending to visitors but was unavailable for comment. A senior medical staff member at IDC Olodo confirmed that 50 victims had been treated and discharged, while others are still receiving care.
Oyo State Commissioner for Health is expected to address the public on the incident in the coming week. Meanwhile, Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the case, stating that an investigation is ongoing.
