A church service in Delta State was abruptly disrupted after a group of men dressed in security uniforms reportedly stormed a worship centre in Ughelli, causing panic among congregants.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, April 12, 2026, involved an invasion of an Assemblies of God Church branch, where worshippers had gathered for service.
Eyewitness accounts and a video circulating online showed a tense and chaotic scene as the uniformed men confronted individuals within the church premises.
During the disruption, the attackers allegedly assaulted the church’s pastor and his wife, drawing strong reactions from those present.
Sources within the church suggested that the invasion may be connected to an ongoing dispute involving the leadership or control of the church, although this has not been officially confirmed.
It was gathered that the uniformed men claimed they were acting on instructions, possibly linked to the dispute, which may have led to the attempted arrest of the pastor.
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According to witnesses, the men moved directly toward the altar area where the pastor and his wife were seated. The pastor was reportedly grabbed and restrained, while his wife was also forcefully handled as she tried to intervene.
The situation quickly escalated when the operatives allegedly sprayed a substance believed to be tear gas at close range, affecting both individuals and causing visible distress.
The commotion spread across the church as worshippers shouted and attempted to understand what was happening. Some members tried to step in, but were held back by the invading men.
In the footage, a woman identified as the pastor’s daughter could be heard raising alarm and protesting the treatment of her parents.
She repeatedly questioned the actions of the men and refused to leave the premises despite being ordered to do so, adding to the tension at the scene.
The identities of the men involved remain unclear, and authorities have yet to confirm whether they are affiliated with any recognised security agency or acting independently.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the church leadership regarding the incident. It is also uncertain whether any of the victims sustained serious injuries.
The development has sparked concern within the Christian community, with many calling for clarity on the circumstances surrounding the invasion, the attempted arrest, and the use of force within a place of worship.
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