The Nigeria Police Force has arrested four members of a church in Abuja over an alleged plot to kidnap a female cleric, identified as Prophetess Elizabeth, following a testimony she reportedly gave about her personal achievements.
The police said the incident had prompted concerns about the safety of worshippers who disclose personal information during religious gatherings, particularly at churches located in isolated areas.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Adamu Muazu, who heads the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), disclosed that the suspects allegedly planned to abduct the prophetess after an evening church service.
Speaking while presenting the suspects to journalists, Muazu warned worshippers against assuming that everyone attending religious gatherings has genuine spiritual intentions.
He explained that sharing details about personal achievements in front of a congregation could expose individuals to potential security threats, especially when criminals have access to information about their movements and routines.
Muazu questioned the safety of attending evening services at churches situated on the outskirts of cities without adequate security arrangements, particularly when members have to travel home after dark.
According to him, church leaders have a responsibility to assess potential security risks and take appropriate measures to protect their congregations.
He urged religious institutions operating in isolated locations to provide security guidance for members and ensure that worshippers can safely enter and leave their premises.
The police chief also stressed the need for churches to pay closer attention to access roads, entrances and exits, especially during evening programmes.
He said adequate security arrangements should be put in place whenever services are scheduled to end late in the day.
Suspects Allegedly Had Close Ties to the Victim
Muazu disclosed that the alleged plot involved individuals who had close connections to the intended victim and the church’s leadership.
Among those arrested was reportedly the prophetess’s driver, who worked closely with her. Another suspect was identified as a bodyguard to the church’s senior pastor.
The police said the suspects were members of the same church as the intended victim, raising concerns about the possibility of trusted individuals exploiting their relationships to obtain sensitive information.
The authorities cautioned that criminals could take advantage of information disclosed during religious gatherings to identify potential targets and monitor their movements.
The police consequently urged worshippers to exercise discretion when discussing their personal circumstances and achievements in public, while encouraging church leaders to strengthen security arrangements for their members.
The investigation into the alleged kidnapping plot is expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the plan and the respective roles of the suspects.
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