Two pastors, Umoren Bassey (60) and Elija Aniete (51), were apprehended on January 20, 2025, by residents of Rumunduru in Oroigwe, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, and handed over to the police.
The suspects, both natives of Akwa Ibom State, were linked to disturbing items discovered in their churches.
During a press briefing at the Rivers State Police Command headquarters, the Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed shocking findings in the churches of Bassey, of God Deliverance Apostolic Church, and Aniete, of Power House of Glory International Church.
Among the items recovered were live cartridges, swords, two wooden coffins, fake naval passports, thousands of pictures and passports, bottles containing unknown substances, children’s shoes, calabashes, coconuts, Bibles, police uniforms, and various spiritual items.
Contrary to earlier claims, no python or large casket was found.
Clerics Defend Themselves
Bassey, speaking on the matter, denied the allegations, claiming that the items recovered were tools for spiritual practices and healing, as directed by God.
He further alleged that some of the materials were planted by community members due to a land dispute and criticized the unlawful search of his house.
“You can use water and oil to heal people,” Bassey stated. “I’ve lived in this community for 17 years, helping people with prayers and healing.
Some of the pictures found are of my son and church members. The small casket and miracle oil are tools for praying for mad individuals to restore their sanity within three months.”
Aniete, on his part, explained that he was visiting Bassey to discuss maritime-related issues, as they both belong to an organization called Maritime Rescue Coastal Security.
Police Investigation Continues
The Rivers State Police Command assured the public of a thorough investigation into the matter.
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