Mobs attack church over alleged rape of married woman in Benue

Mobs have invaded a church in Gboko, the headquarters of Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, over the allegation of rape of a married woman, destroying properties worth millions of naira.

A source close to the church said the attack may be as a result of the recent allegation that an unnamed married woman who went to the church for prayers was raped.

However, the source added that the victim, who was said to have been raped around 10:00 a.m., did not raise an alarm because of the proximity of the church, which is located by the roadside.

Several properties of the church, known as Throne of Grace Healing and Deliverance Ministries on Gboko-Aliade Road, were destroyed, including chairs, a keyboard, drums, and a public address system.

The head of the church, Prophet Prince Matthew Iorhembe, in a telephone interview with journalists, said the attack occurred at about 11:00 a.m. penultimate Friday.

He said some youths stormed the church with dangerous weapons and carried out the attack unchallenged.

Prophet Iorhembe said the youths inflicted maximum destruction on the church before the arrival of the police he had summoned.

He said three persons have been arrested in connection with the incident by men of Gboko Central Police Station.

Prophet Iorhembe said the Chairman of Gboko Local Government Council, Barr. Torseer Yina, and former member representing Gboko/Tarka at the House of Representatives, Hon. John Dyegh, had indicated interest in the case, and therefore discussions were ongoing.

He called on members of the church to remain calm and allow the law to take its course, noting that the items destroyed were worth more than N10 million.

Prophet Iorhembe wondered why his church would be attacked in such a brazen manner without anyone telling him his offence.

The incident was confirmed by the Deputy Spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Orchia Peter, who said the matter was being investigated at the ‘A’ Division in Gboko.