ORON, AKWA IBOM — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a comprehensive investigation following the tragic death of Pastor Etetim Udo, the Founder and General Overseer of Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries.
The cleric was found dead inside his church premises, located at No. 1B Etim Inyang Street, Oron, in what preliminary reports suggest may be a case of suicide.
According to a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the police were alerted to the situation on the morning of Thursday, July 23, 2026. A distress call was received at approximately 8:18 a.m. from a local resident who regularly parks his motorcycle at the church.
The resident reported arriving at the premises to find an unusual gathering. He was subsequently informed by Pastor Udo’s children that their father had allegedly taken his own life.
“Following the report, police operatives immediately mobilized to the scene,” DSP John stated. “Preliminary observations revealed that the deceased was found suspended with a twisted mosquito net rope inside the church.”
Police investigators professionally processed the scene, taking photographs and recovering relevant exhibits to aid in a forensic examination. Pastor Udo’s body was evacuated to a nearby hospital, where a doctor on duty officially confirmed his passing. His remains have since been deposited at the mortuary, where an autopsy will be conducted.
While early findings point toward suicide, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command emphasized that they are not ruling out any other possibilities until the investigation is complete.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, assured the public that the investigation will be thorough, impartial, and conducted with the highest professional standards to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the cleric’s sudden death.
CP Azare also issued an appeal to the public, urging anyone with useful information to come forward. Furthermore, the Commissioner cautioned citizens against spreading unverified information or engaging in speculations that could mislead investigators or trigger unnecessary public anxiety.
Stay tuned to ABT NEWS for further updates on this developing story.
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