Residents of Adebiopon Village in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State were thrown into shock and confusion after a 50-year-old traditional priest, identified as Muritala Shodiya, popularly known as “Ifa,” allegedly set himself on fire in a tragic incident that has left the community reeling.

The disturbing incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday evening when Shodiya was said to have entered an uncompleted building in the village, poured petrol on himself and ignited the flames.

Witnesses said the sight of the burning priest sent panic across the area as residents rushed to the scene in a desperate bid to save him. Villagers managed to extinguish the fire and quickly transported him to the General Hospital in Ijaye, Abeokuta, where he battled for his life before he was confirmed dead on Thursday morning.

Shodiya, who was widely known in the area for his Ifa worship and fortune-telling practices, had reportedly spent years in Ijaye before relocating to Adebiopon Village.

Sources within the community revealed that the deceased had been battling emotional distress in recent months, allegedly following the collapse of his marriage after his wife reportedly left him for another man.

A resident who spoke anonymously disclosed that the late priest had shown visible signs of depression before the tragic incident.

According to the source, his behaviour had changed significantly in recent weeks, raising concerns among those close to him.

Another villager, identified simply as Kazeem, recounted the chaotic rescue effort, saying residents did everything possible to save him.

“We rushed there immediately and put out the fire before taking him to the hospital. Sadly, we heard this morning that he didn’t survive,” he said.

Kazeem also dismissed rumours circulating in the village that the deceased may have been attacked, insisting that Shodiya was the one who set himself ablaze.

Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Police spokesperson, Babaseyi Oluseyi, stated that officers visited the scene, documented evidence, and are working to uncover the full details behind the heartbreaking incident.

The tragic death has sparked conversations around mental health and emotional struggles, with many residents expressing sadness over what they described as a painful and avoidable loss.