Court Sentences Pastor to Death Over Killing of University Student in Akwa Ibom

Court Sentences Pastor to Death Over Killing of University Student in Akwa Ibom

A High Court sitting in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, has sentenced a church pastor to death after finding him guilty of murdering a university student in a case that shocked residents and raised serious concerns about abuse of trust within religious institutions.

The presiding judge, Justice Gabriel Ette, delivered the judgment after concluding that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt. The defendant, Emmanuel Umoh, was the resident pastor of a church branch located in Ifa Ikot Ubo, within Uyo Local Government Area.

The victim, Gabriel Bassey, was a final-year Civil Engineering student at the University of Uyo. He was also the landlord of the property where the church operated.

Background of the Case

According to evidence presented during the trial, Bassey had moved into the family compound following the death of his mother in December 2019. The property originally housed a nursery school established by his late mother, alongside a residential section where Bassey lived with his younger brother.

A large hall within the compound was later rented to the church for worship activities at an agreed annual rent of ₦150,000, with the consent of Bassey’s father, a retired school principal. However, the court heard that the church began using the facility before completing full payment.

Umoh was subsequently posted to the church as its pioneer resident pastor.

Events Leading to the Killing

Testimony revealed that tensions soon arose between the deceased and the pastor over access to church property stored inside Bassey’s apartment. The hall reportedly lacked doors and windows, prompting the pastor to request permission to keep chairs and equipment inside the student’s flat.

While permission was granted, the arrangement reportedly caused repeated inconveniences for Bassey, who often had to travel back home to grant access when the pastor needed the items. Complaints were made to his father, who later instructed that a spare key be given to the pastor.

After the key exchange, several personal belongings belonging to Bassey’s late mother allegedly went missing. When questioned, the pastor claimed the key had been misplaced. This prompted involvement from the church leadership, which reportedly provided funds for the locks to be changed.

The court was told that no further items went missing after the locks were replaced, but disagreements later emerged regarding rent payments and funds meant for repairs on the property.

Discovery of the Crime

On December 21, 2020, witnesses testified that Umoh was seen entering the compound. Neighbours later reported hearing screams coming from the premises.

Shortly after, the pastor was allegedly seen leaving the area wearing a white garment stained with blood. He reportedly told those who questioned him that he had fallen while attempting to hang a banner.

Five days later, the decomposing body of Gabriel Bassey was discovered inside his room. He had suffered multiple stab wounds, and a knife was recovered near the body. His remains were reportedly wrapped in a mat.

Being the last person seen with the deceased and unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the bloodstains found on his clothing, Umoh was arrested and charged with murder.

Court Proceedings and Judgment

The trial commenced in December 2021. The prosecution called six witnesses, including the victim’s father, while the defence also presented testimony.

After reviewing the evidence, Justice Ette described the case as disturbing and tragic, particularly given the position of trust held by the accused.

In his ruling, the judge emphasized the sanctity of human life and condemned the actions of individuals who misuse religious authority for personal or criminal ends.

He stated that anyone who betrays public trust and takes another person’s life must face the full consequences of the law.

The court therefore found Emmanuel Umoh guilty as charged and sentenced him to death by hanging.

Public Reaction

The verdict has generated widespread discussion across Akwa Ibom and beyond, with many residents describing the judgment as a reminder that no individual is above the law, regardless of religious status.

Legal observers say the ruling reinforces accountability and underscores the importance of justice for victims of violent crime.