A tragic incident at an Ibadan-based white-garment church
has resulted in the deaths of five worshippers with several others receiving
treatment at the Infectious Disease Centre (IDC) in Olodo, Oyo State.
The church feast, known locally as “Ipese,” took place
during a service last Sunday and has raised concerns regarding its safety.
As of Saturday night, approximately 50 worshippers have been
discharged from the IDC after receiving medical care.
It was gathered that the local church community is
grappling with the aftermath of this unsettling event, which has drawn the
attention of various governmental agencies, including the police and the
Directorate of State Services (DSS), as well as the World Health Organization
(WHO).
A church source hinted to Vanguard that the cause of the
deaths remains unconfirmed, saying, “I ate the prepared beans like every other
member, including the victims, and nothing happened to me.”
He emphasised that the situation should not be solely
attributed to the “Ipese” feast, adding that, “The incident is being
investigated thoroughly, and it is not just about the “ipese” as some are
suggesting.”
Officials from multiple organisations have visited the
church for fact-finding missions, although their findings have yet to be
publicised.
“There’s no truth to the rumour that the church premises
have been shut down. The Shepherd-in-Charge has been attending to visitors and
is currently undergoing tests,” the source further clarified.
A senior medical staff member at IDC Olodo, who spoke
anonymously, confirmed the ongoing treatment of affected individuals.
“As of today, 50 patients have been treated and discharged,
while others remain under care. “We expect the state commissioner for health to
address the press about the incident next week.”
While contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP
Adewale Osifeso confirmed the incident and mentioned that investigations are
currently underway.
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