Hoodlums have invaded the Throne of Grace Healing and Deliverance Ministries in Mbatiav, along Gboko-Aliade road, Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, destroying property worth millions of naira.
The attackers reportedly vandalised chairs, musical instruments, a public address system, tiles, windows, and even pulled off parts of the church roof during the invasion.
Although the motive behind the assault is still unknown, the founder of the church, Prophet Matthew Iorhembe, described the incident as shocking and deeply disturbing.
He said: “the youths stormed the Church with dangerous weapons in their hands at about 11am and carried out the attack unchallenged.”
Prophet Iorhembe added that his distress call to the police came too late, as the hoodlums had already fled before security operatives arrived.
“But men of Gboko Central Police Station have already arrested three persons in connection with the incident. I wonder why the Church will be attacked in such manner without telling anyone the offense,” he said.
The cleric disclosed that he had reported the matter to the Chairman of Gboko LGA, Mr. Torseer Yina, and a former House of Representatives member for Gboko/Tarka.
He appealed to his congregation to remain calm while security agencies handle the case, lamenting that the loss exceeded N10 million.
Police spokesman in Benue, DSP Peter Orchia, confirmed the incident, saying Gboko ‘A’ Division had commenced investigation.