At least five people have died, and several others are receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Centre in Olodo, Egbeda Local Government Area of Oyo State, following their participation in a ‘Love Feast’ called Ipese, organized by a white garment church in Ibadan.
The incident took place last Sunday at the church in Apata, Ido Local Government Area, causing alarm within the community.
A source affiliated with the church, who asked to remain anonymous, stated that it remains unclear whether the Ipese meal caused the fatalities.
“I ate the same beans as the others, including the victims, and I had no issues. It’s uncertain if the incident is connected to the Ipese, despite some claims. Several agencies, including the police, DSS, media, and the World Health Organization, are investigating, but their findings have not yet been disclosed. I don’t think it’s directly related to Ipese,” the source explained.
An official from the Infectious Disease Centre, also speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that 50 individuals who were affected have been treated and released.
“Some patients were brought here for medical care. So far, 50 have been discharged, while others are still being treated,” the official stated.
Adewale Osifeso, the Public Relations Officer for the Oyo State Police, confirmed the situation and mentioned that investigations are ongoing.
