The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of Pastor Etetim Udo, founder and General Overseer of Power in the Word of God for the World Ministries in Oron.
Police said the cleric was found dead at the church premises on Thursday, July 23, 2026, after officers responded to a distress report from a resident.
According to a statement issued by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the report was received at about 8:18 a.m. after a man who regularly parks his motorcycle at the church noticed an unusual gathering on arrival.
The resident reportedly learnt from the pastor’s children that their father had allegedly taken his own life before alerting the police.
Police officers who arrived at the scene carried out preliminary investigations and found the deceased suspended with what was described as a twisted mosquito net rope inside the church.
Investigators processed the scene, documented relevant evidence and recovered exhibits for forensic analysis as part of efforts to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
The body was later taken to a hospital, where a doctor confirmed the pastor dead before his remains were deposited in a mortuary pending an autopsy.
According to official information, investigators are treating the incident as a suspected suicide based on preliminary findings. However, the police stressed that the ongoing investigation will determine the actual cause and circumstances of the cleric’s death while ruling out any other possible factors.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, assured residents that the investigation would be thorough, impartial and professionally handled.
He also appealed to anyone with information that could assist investigators to cooperate with the police.
The command further urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified claims or speculation that could interfere with the investigation or create unnecessary public anxiety.
The outcome of the police investigation and autopsy is expected to provide further clarity on the circumstances surrounding the pastor’s death.