Five people who participated in a traditional Yoruba feast known as ‘Ipese’ organised by a white-garment church in Ibadan, Oyo State, have been confirmed dead, while others are currently receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Centre in the Olodo area.
At the time of filing this report, approximately 50 worshippers had been discharged from the centre. The incident occurred during a church service last Sunday.
Ipese, a traditional event integral to the church’s doctrine, is believed to be the cause of the unfortunate incident, although there is no conclusive medical evidence to confirm this.
According to Tribune, a source 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 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 (our correspondent) can’t see him now unless you come tomorrow during the service.”
A senior medical staff at IDC Olodo, who chose not to be named, verified the incident.
He stated that 50 of the individuals brought to the IDC have received medical care and have been discharged.
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”.
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the incident and said an investigation is ongoing.