The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has commenced a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Pastor Etetim Udo, Founder and General Overseer of the Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries in Oron local government area, who was found dead in an alleged suicide on Thursday.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, in a statement on Saturday said the command received a distress call on Saturday July 23, 2026 at about 8:18am from a resident who arrived at the church premises on No. 1B Etim Inyang Street, Oron where he usually parked his motorbike and observed unusual gathering. The deceased’s children then notified the resident that their father had supposedly taken his own life.
“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives were immediately mobilised to the scene. “Preliminary observations indicated that the pastor was found hanging with a twisted mosquito net rope. The scene was handled properly, images were collected and important items recovered for forensic testing and subsequent inquiry.
The body was conveyed to a hospital where a medical practitioner confirmed him dead and has since been put at the mortuary awaiting an autopsy. Initial reports point to an apparent suicide, but the command said the inquiry continues to determine the facts surrounding the occurrence and rule out any other possibilities.
Worshippers and citizens have been shocked by the tragedy. One worshipper, who gave her name as Imaobong Asuquo, said, “He never showed any form of being bothered by anybody or anything. That was a busy day and we got some disturbing news that our GO committed suicide. It was only a rumour and we ignored it as another bit of fake news. But, however, when we reached there, he was dead, cold, hanging on the tree with the robe tied around his neck to the limb.”
CP Baba Mohammed Azare, the Commissioner of Police promised members of the public that the probe will be rigorous, unbiased and professionally carried out. He urged anyone with good information that could help the investigation to come forward and cooperate with the authorities.
The commissioner further advised the public not to circulate unsubstantiated information or conjecture that could confuse the investigation or cause needless public alarm. The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has restated its determination to thoroughly examine every claim made for justice.
About the Author
