Residents of Adebiopon Village in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State have been left in shock following the death of a traditional worshipper, Muritala Shodiya, who allegedly set himself on fire.
The 50-year-old was said to have sustained severe burns after reportedly pouring petrol on himself and igniting it inside an uncompleted building on Wednesday evening.
Witnesses said villagers quickly intervened, put out the fire and rushed him to the General Hospital in Ijaye, Abeokuta, for medical attention. He, however, succumbed to his injuries on Thursday.
Shodiya, popularly known in the community as "Ifa," was recognised for his practice of Ifa divination. He was said to have previously lived in Ijaye before relocating to Adebiopon Village.
A resident, who requested anonymity, alleged that the deceased had recently exhibited signs of emotional distress following marital challenges.
The source claimed Shodiya became withdrawn after his wife reportedly ended their relationship and left for another man.
Another resident, identified only as Kazeem, said members of the community responded immediately after discovering the victim in flames.
He explained that although speculation initially suggested the deceased might have been attacked, available information indicated that the fire was self-inflicted.
According to him, Shodiya managed to emerge from a nearby bush while engulfed in flames before residents came to his rescue and transported him to the hospital.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying an investigation had been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The command's spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, said police officers visited the scene after receiving a report that the victim allegedly poured petrol on himself and set himself ablaze in an uncompleted building within the community.
She added that the scene was documented while detectives commenced a full investigation into the incident.
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