Two pastors in Rivers State have been arrested and paraded by the police for allegedly possessing fetish items, including small caskets, monkey skulls, carved skeletons, and other spiritual materials. The suspects, identified as Prophet Bassey Umoren, 60, and Prophet Elijah Anietie, 50, are the founders of God’s Deliverance Apostolic Church and Power House of Glory International Gospel Church, both located along Eneka Road in the Rumunduru community of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
The arrest came after concerned youths in the Rumunduru community, led by their youth leader, Henry Worlu, apprehended the pastors and handed them over to the police. The Rivers State Police Command confirmed this during a press briefing at its headquarters in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
“This case, which has been trending on social media, involves two pastors reported by the youths of Rumunduru community on January 20, 2025, at about 9 a.m.,” said Grace Iringe-Koko, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state. “The youths brought the suspects, Prophet Umoren Bassey and Prophet Elijah Anietie, both of Akwa Ibom State origin, and handed them over to the police for discreet investigation.”
During the parade, Iringe-Koko detailed the disturbing items found in the churches, which included photographs—some of which were of children—spiritual books, carved images, wooden skulls, small caskets, crosses, and other ritual materials.
“These items raise serious concerns, and investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of their activities and identify potential victims,” Iringe-Koko added.
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The youths of Rumunduru have been commended for their proactive efforts in exposing the alleged activities of the pastors. Community members expressed relief that these suspicious practices, which they claimed posed a spiritual and social threat, were uncovered.
One community resident, who requested anonymity, said, “We’ve been suspicious for a long time. These pastors claimed they were helping people spiritually, but their practices didn’t seem right. I’m glad our youth took action.”
The police assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted to uncover the full scope of the suspects’ actions. “We will leave no stone unturned in ensuring justice is served,” Iringe-Koko said.
The arrests have sparked conversations about the activities of some self-acclaimed spiritual leaders in the region, with many calling for stricter regulation of religious practices to prevent abuse and exploitation.