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Police launch investigation into death of Oron-based cleric, Pastor Etetim Udo
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Body recovered from church premises and deposited in the mortuary for autopsy
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Commissioner of Police urges public to avoid speculation as probe continues
July 26, (THEWILL) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the death of an Oron-based cleric, Pastor Etetim Udo, founder and General Overseer of Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries, following circumstances initially suspected to be suicide.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the incident was reported to the Command at about 8:18 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, by a resident who said he noticed an unusual gathering at the church premises on No. 1B Etim Inyang Street, Oron, where he usually parks his motorcycle.
The resident was reportedly informed by the deceased’s children that their father had allegedly taken his own life, prompting police operatives to immediately visit the scene.
The police said preliminary observations showed that the cleric was found suspended with a twisted mosquito net rope. Investigators processed the scene, took photographs, and recovered exhibits for forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
The statement added that the body was evacuated to a hospital, where a medical doctor confirmed him dead before the remains were deposited in a mortuary pending an autopsy.
While preliminary findings suggest a suspected case of suicide, the command stressed that investigations are continuing to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and to rule out every other possibility.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, assured the public that the investigation would be thorough, impartial, and professionally conducted.
He appealed to anyone with useful information to assist investigators by coming forward, while urging residents to refrain from spreading unverified information or engaging in speculation that could mislead the investigation or create unnecessary public anxiety.
The command reiterated its commitment to conducting diligent investigations into reported incidents while safeguarding lives and property across Akwa Ibom State.
