The leadership of the Assemblies of God Nigeria has strongly condemned the violent attack on one of its churches in Ughelli, Delta State, describing the incident as unacceptable and deeply troubling.
In a statement issued by the general council and signed by the church’s media ministries, the organisation said the April 12, 2026, attack, which reportedly targeted the senior pastor and his family, left victims with injuries and trauma.
The church clarified that the individuals involved, who were allegedly dressed in Royal Rangers uniforms, were not authorised members acting under its directive.
“The leadership of the Assemblies of God Nigeria has noted the widespread concern regarding the unfortunate incident at one of our churches in Ughelli, Delta State, on April 12, 2026, involving an attack on the Senior Pastor and his family by individuals wearing Royal Rangers uniforms,” the statement read.
Condemning the act, the church reiterated the core values guiding Royal Rangers members, stressing that they are non-combatant and law-abiding.
According to the statement, preliminary findings indicate that the invasion was neither sanctioned nor known by Royal Rangers leadership at any level.
“We strongly condemn this violent conduct, which has caused injuries and trauma. True Royal Rangers are, first and foremost, saved, born-again members of the Church, aligned with its character, virtues and values. They are non-combatant, do not bear arms, and are strictly prohibited by our rules of engagement from taking the law into their own hands or resorting to self-help.
“Preliminary investigations confirm that Royal Rangers leadership at all levels was unaware of, and did not authorise this invasion or assault carried out in official uniform,” the statement said.
The church disclosed that the matter has been reported to law enforcement agencies for a full investigation, while an internal probe has also been initiated.
“The Church has formally reported the matter to law enforcement agencies, which are conducting a thorough investigation into the identities of the assailants and their authority to wear the uniform.
Simultaneously, we have launched an internal inquiry to determine both the immediate and remote causes,” it said.
The church assured its members and the public that justice would be served without bias and that appropriate disciplinary actions would be taken against anyone found culpable.
“We assure the public, our members, and the Body of Christ that justice will be served impartially. No one who breaches Church laws or discipline will be spared,” said the statement.
Describing the situation as under control, the church said its district and national leadership were actively managing the matter.
The church appealed for calm and urged the public to avoid speculation or sensational reporting.
“The situation is under control, with District and General Council leaders actively overseeing its resolution through our established spiritual and administrative mechanisms.
“We continue to regard this as a family matter, best handled with wisdom, maturity and prayerful oversight. Kindly refrain from speculation or sensationalism, and join us in upholding Church unity through prayer as due process unfolds,” the statement noted.
The church reaffirmed its commitment to order, discipline, and upholding its spiritual values.
