At least five people have been confirmed dead, while many others are undergoing treatment at the Infectious Disease Centre in Olodo, Oyo State, after attending a ‘Love Feast’—locally referred to as Ipese—hosted by a white garment church in Ibadan.
According to The PUNCH, the tragic incident occurred last Sunday within the premises of the church, located in Apata, Ido Local Government Area, leaving the community in shock and confusion.
Although there is speculation that the Ipese meal may have caused the fatalities, the cause of death has not been officially confirmed.
A church member, who requested anonymity, downplayed the possibility of the meal being the culprit.
“I ate the same beans that everyone else did, including those who passed away, and I’m fine. It’s still unclear if the deaths are linked to the Ipese, as some are suggesting,” he said.
“Government agencies, including the police, DSS, media, and even WHO, have been investigating, but no official findings have been released yet.”
An anonymous official at the Infectious Disease Centre confirmed that 50 individuals brought to the facility had been treated and discharged.
“Some of the victims were brought here for care. So far, 50 have been treated and released, but others are still receiving treatment,” the official stated.
Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer Adewale Osifeso also confirmed the incident, noting that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the deaths.
