Pastor found dead in Akwa Ibom, police begin probe

Authorities in Akwa Ibom State have launched a comprehensive investigation into the death of Pastor Etetim Udo, the founder and General Overseer of Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries in Oron. The pastor was reportedly found dead on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

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The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a cleric, Pastor Etetim Udo, Founder and General Overseer of Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries, located at No. 1B Etim Inyang Street, Oron.

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command received a distress call early Thursday morning from a resident who noticed an unusual gathering at the church premises where he usually parks his motorcycle. Upon inquiry, the resident was informed by the deceased's children that their father had allegedly taken his own life.

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On Thursday, July 23, 2026, at about 8:18 a.m., the command received a distress report from a resident who stated that upon arriving at the church premises, where he usually parks his motorcycle, he noticed an unusual gathering.

Police operatives were immediately dispatched to the scene. Preliminary observations indicated that Pastor Udo was found suspended by a twisted mosquito net rope inside the church. Investigators processed the scene, collected exhibits, and took photographs to aid forensic examination.

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He was subsequently informed by the deceased’s children that their father had allegedly taken his own life.

The pastor's body was transported to a hospital, where a doctor confirmed his death. His remains have been deposited at the mortuary pending an autopsy. While preliminary findings point towards suicide, the police command stressed that the ongoing investigation will aim to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding his death and rule out any other possibilities.

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Following the report, police operatives immediately mobilised to the scene. Preliminary observations revealed that the deceased was found suspended with a twisted mosquito net rope inside the church.