No fewer than five worshippers have died, while others are on admission at the Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo, Ibadan, the Oyo State capital after allegedly eating a meal known in Yoruba as ‘Ipese’ organised by a white-garment church, The Nation reports.
But, many of the worshippers, who were also affected by the food, have been discharged from the centre.
According to The Nation, the incident happened during a service in the church the previous Sunday.
The feast, otherwise known as ‘Ipese’, is part of the traditional events of the church.
A source in the church said it had not been established medically whether the Ipese was responsible for the death of the affected victims or not.
The 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 believed.
“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.”
Also, a senior medical staff member at IDC Olodo, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the incident.
He said 50 of the victims that were rushed to the IDC have been treated and discharged.
He added: “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 Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the incident, saying investigation was ongoing.
