A 50-year-old traditional priest, Muritala Shodiya, has died after allegedly setting himself on fire in Adebiopon Village, located in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.
According to a report by Punch Newspaper, the tragic incident happened on Wednesday evening when Shodiya, popularly known as “Ifa”, reportedly poured petrol on himself inside an uncompleted building before setting himself ablaze.
Residents rushed to the scene after noticing the fire and managed to extinguish the flames before taking him to General Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta. However, he was pronounced dead on Thursday morning.
Shodiya was known in the community for fortune-telling and Ifa worship. He had reportedly practised in Ijaye for several years before relocating to Adebiopon Village.
A community source, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the case, said Shodiya had shown signs of emotional distress in recent months.
The source alleged that his condition worsened after his wife reportedly left him for another man.
Another resident, identified as Kazeem, said villagers acted quickly in an attempt to save his life.
He said there were initial rumours suggesting foul play, but residents believed Shodiya set himself ablaze.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident and said an investigation is ongoing.
Police spokesperson Babaseyi Oluseyi said officers visited the scene, documented the incident and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The incident has left residents of the community in shock as authorities continue investigations.
