Investigations by the Bayelsa State Police Command have revealed an alleged plot to assassinate a prophet in the state, leading to the arrest of a pastor and a suspected cult member. Police say preliminary findings indicate that the suspect apprehended at the victim’s residence is a member of a notorious cult group and was allegedly contracted to carry out the killing.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, confirmed that the arrests followed actionable intelligence received by the command. He disclosed that the suspect, identified as 21-year-old Samuel Daniel, was arrested at the premises of the intended victim and allegedly confessed to being a member of the Greenlanders cult. According to the police, Daniel claimed he was hired by Pastor Elijah Oro to execute the attack.
DSP Mohammed stated that the arrests were made on 28 January 2026 at about 10:35 a.m. by operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit. Alongside Samuel Daniel, Pastor Elijah Oro, 59, a native of Ozoro Community in Delta State, was also taken into custody in connection with the alleged plot.
The identity of the intended victim has been withheld by the police for security reasons, as investigations are still ongoing.
Police sources indicated that the alleged assassination attempt may be linked to a dispute between the pastor and the prophet over church membership and property. Investigators are reportedly examining the nature of the disagreement, the level of planning involved, and whether other individuals may have played a role in the alleged plot.
The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed that both suspects remain in custody while investigations continue. Authorities say further updates will be provided as inquiries progress, and the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, in line with the law.
