5 worshippers die, several hospitalized after eating 'ipese'

Tragedy struck at a white garment church in Ibadan as five worshippers were confirmed dead after they took part in a feast known in Yoruba parlance as ipese organised by the church.

Several others were also said to have been taken to the Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo area of Ibadan, Oyo State.

The incident, it was gathered, happened during a service held in the church last Sunday.

However, about 50 of the worshippers who were on admission had been discharged from the centre.

A source in the church told Tribune that it has not been established medically whether the ipese was responsible for the death of the affected victims.

According to him, “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, 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.

“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 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.

According to him, “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.

According to him, “Investigation is ongoing on the matter.”