File photo of worshippers at a white garment church
By Tony Folarin
Five worshippers are reportedly dead while others are in critical condition at the Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo area of Ibadan, Oyo State, after they ate food in a feast known in Yoruba language as ipese organised by an Ibadan-based white-garment church.
However, about 50 of the worshippers had been discharged from the centre late Saturday.
Tribune learnt that the incident happened during a service held in the church last Sunday.
The feast otherwise known as ipese, as reliably informed, is part of the traditional events in conformity with the church’s doctrine.
A source in the church said 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 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 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.
