Five Dead, Dozens Hospitalized After Church Feast in Ibadan

A tragic incident in Ibadan has left at least five people dead and several others hospitalized following their participation in a church ‘Love Feast’, locally known as Ipese, organized by a white garment church in Apata, Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The unfortunate event, which occurred last Sunday, has caused widespread confusion and alarm in the community. While the exact cause of the deaths remains unclear, many are questioning whether the Ipese meal served during the event was to blame.

A church member, who requested anonymity, downplayed the link between the feast and the fatalities. “I ate the same beans as everyone else, including the victims, and nothing happened to me. It’s uncertain if the meal is responsible. Various government agencies, including the police, DSS, and the World Health Organization, have been involved in the investigation, but their findings are not yet public,” the source explained.

Meanwhile, at the Infectious Disease Centre in Olodo, Egbeda Local Government Area, where the affected were rushed for treatment, an official confirmed that 50 of the victims had been treated and discharged. “Others are still receiving care,” the anonymous staff member added.

Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the incident, noting that investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.