A popular radio and television evangelist, Apostle John Okoriko, has been abducted by suspected kidnappers in Akwa Ibom state on Tuesday evening, April 19.
Okiriko is the founder of Solid Rock Kingdom Church (SRKC) situated at Ibekwe Akpan Nya community in Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of the state.
According to reports, the 74-year-old man was whisked away by some gunmen who stormed his church headquarters where he also resides.
The gunmen numbering about five reportedly invaded the compound shortly after the clergyman drove into the premises with his Lexus SUV, through the back fence of the church leading to a thick bush.
Speaking with newsmen, an eyewitness who identified himself as Bassey Asuquo said,
“After successfully scaling the fence, the gunmen started shooting sporadically and forcefully entered his sitting room from where they dragged the octogenarian, forcing neighbours to scamper for safety”.
He added the concerned neighbours called the police who immediately sprung into action alongside some youths who volunteered to help search for the pastor, but all efforts were futile.
According to a family source who pleaded anonymity, the Apostle has contacted the family through his phone and stated that his abductors are demanding for N100 million to secure his release.
Confirming the incident in a short statement released on Wednesday, April 20, the spokesperson of the state police command, SP Odiko Macdon, wrote,
“The Command has received a report on the incident and the Commissioner of Police Andrew (CP), Mr. Amiengheme Andrew, has ordered for a discreet investigation with a view to apprehending the suspects and to the victim unharmed.”
