Tragedy strikes as five individuals lose their lives and many others are hospitalized after consuming food at a church event. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident.
At least five people have died and many more are undergoing treatment after eating during a “love festival” at the White Robe Church in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
According to a report by Punch, the tragic incident occurred on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at a church in Apata area of Ido Local Government Area.
The meal, which mainly consisted of beans, was part of a traditional event called “Ipeze”.
Health officials at the infectious disease centre in Olodo, Egbeda County, where the victims were admitted, confirmed the deaths of five worshippers.
They also noted that many others have been admitted for emergency treatment.
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A health worker at the centre, who asked not to be named, said about 50 infected people have already been treated and discharged. “Some of the victims were brought here for treatment. Fifty have been discharged so far while the rest are still undergoing treatment,” the official said.
Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, also confirmed the incident and said investigations were ongoing.
The incident has shocked locals while the exact cause of death is still unknown.
A church member who wished to remain anonymous asked if the bean dish was the cause of death. “I ate the same thing as other people, including the victim, but nothing happened to me,” the source said.
The source added that various authorities, including police, intelligence agencies and even the World Health Organisation, are investigating the incident. “The findings have not yet been made public, but we don’t believe Ipsey is to blame,” they said.
