Mob Action Rocks Benue Church Over Rape Scandal

Tension erupted in Gboko, Benue State, after mobs stormed a church following allegations that a married woman was raped within the premises, leaving property worth millions of naira destroyed.

The incident occurred at Throne of Grace Healing and Deliverance Ministries on Gboko-Aliade Road, where angry youths reportedly vandalized chairs, musical instruments, and the church’s public address system.

According to sources, the unrest was linked to claims that a woman who had visited the church for prayers was assaulted around 10:00 a.m. The victim allegedly did not raise an alarm at the time due to the church’s roadside location.

Speaking with journalists, the church’s leader, Prophet Prince Matthew Iorhembe, confirmed that the attack took place at about 11:00 a.m. last Friday. He said the mob arrived with weapons and unleashed destruction before police could respond to his distress call.

“By the time security operatives arrived, serious damage had already been done,” he lamented, estimating losses at over ₦10 million. He also revealed that three suspects have since been arrested by officers from Gboko Central Police Station.

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Prophet Iorhembe noted that the Chairman of Gboko Local Government Council, Barr. Torseer Yina, and former federal lawmaker Hon. John Dyegh had shown interest in the matter, with discussions already ongoing. He appealed to church members to remain calm and allow the law to take its course.

Expressing dismay, the cleric questioned why his ministry was targeted so violently without anyone confronting him directly about the alleged offence.

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Confirming the development, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Orchia Peter, said the case is under investigation at the ‘A’ Division in Gboko.