5 dead, many hospitalized after love feast organized by white garment church

Tragedy struck in Ibadan, Oyo State, as no fewer than five people were confirmed dead, while several others are receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Centre in Olodo, Egbeda Local Government Area, following their participation in a ‘Love Feast,’ popularly known as Ipese, organized by a white garment church.

The incident, which took place last Sunday at the church’s premises in Apata, Ido Local Government Area, has left the local community in shock and confusion.

A church insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that it remains unclear whether the Ipese meal served during the event was responsible for the deaths. “I ate the same beans that everyone else, including the victims, ate, and nothing happened to me. It’s not certain that the deaths are linked to the Ipese, as some people are speculating. Various government agencies, including the police, DSS, media outlets, and even the World Health Organization, have been here to investigate. Their findings are yet to be made public, but I can assure you it’s not necessarily about the Ipese,” the source explained.

Meanwhile, an official at the Infectious Disease Centre confirmed that a total of 50 victims, who were rushed to the facility, had been treated and discharged. “Some of the affected people were brought here for treatment. So far, 50 have been discharged, while others are still receiving care,” the official said.

Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, also confirmed the incident and added that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the deaths and illnesses.

As authorities continue their probe, the community remains on edge, awaiting the results of the investigation to understand the cause of the tragic event.