Traditional Priest Dies After Fire Incident in Ogun Community

Residents of Adebiopon Village in the Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State have been left in mourning following the death of a 50-year-old traditional priest, Muritala Shodiya, after a fire incident that occurred in the community.

The incident reportedly happened on Wednesday evening, with the victim sustaining severe injuries before he was rushed to the General Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta, for emergency medical treatment. Despite efforts by medical personnel to save him, Shodiya was confirmed dead on Thursday morning.

The deceased, popularly known as “Ifa,” was well known in the community for his involvement in Ifa worship and traditional fortune-telling services.

Residents who spoke about the incident described it as shocking and heartbreaking. One community member, who requested anonymity, alleged that Shodiya had recently been going through emotional challenges following the breakdown of his marriage after his wife reportedly left him for another man.

According to the resident, the traditional priest had appeared withdrawn in recent months, although the exact circumstances surrounding the fire remain unclear.

Another resident, identified simply as Kazeem, said neighbours quickly mobilised after noticing the incident and did everything possible to assist the victim.

He explained that villagers responded immediately, extinguished the fire and rushed Shodiya to the General Hospital in Ijaye for treatment. However, news of his death the following morning came as a shock to many who had hoped he would recover.

Kazeem also disclosed that the deceased previously lived in the Ijaye-Adebakin area of Abeokuta before relocating to Adebiopon Village in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, Babaseyi Oluseyi, said officers responded after receiving information about the case.

According to the police spokesman, the victim was rescued on July 1, 2026, and taken to the General Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta, for medical attention. He added that officers visited the scene, documented relevant evidence and commenced an investigation to determine what led to the incident.

The police stated that investigations are ongoing and that further findings will establish the exact circumstances surrounding the fire and the death of the traditional priest.