The Rivers Police Command has paraded two alleged fake pastors, Umoren Bassey and Elijah Aniete, who were apprehended by youths in Rumunduru, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. The suspects, both from Akwa Ibom State, were handed over to the police on January 20, 2025.
According to SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, the suspects were found with various items, including a cartridge, sword, fake naval passport, thousands of people’s pictures, a child’s shoe, police lanyard, different crosses, and spiritual materials. However, no live python or human skull was recovered.
Umoren Bassey, pastor of God Apostolic Deliverance Church in Eneka, Rumunduru, claimed that he uses spiritual materials for prayer, as directed by God. He alleged that the community planted some of the items found in his church and searched his house without a warrant. Bassey stated that he has been healing people and helping the community for 17 years.
Elijah Aniete, pastor of Power of God House Ministry, claimed that he was having a meeting with Bassey when OSPAC and the community arrested them. Henry Worlu, Youth President of Rumundurun, stated that he was informed by the OSPAC commander that Bassey was performing a sacrifice on the road. Worlu denied that anyone was assaulted, and the suspects were handed over to the police.
The police are currently investigating the matter, and the suspects are in custody. The case has sparked concern about the activities of fake pastors in the state.
