Benue Church Attacked: Hoodlums Wreck Worship Centre in Gboko, Millions Lost in Damage

Worshippers in Benue State have been left in shock after unidentified hoodlums stormed the Throne of Grace Healing and Deliverance Ministries in Gboko, destroying property worth more than ₦10 million.

The attack, which took place a few days ago in Mbatiav along the Gboko–Aliade road, saw youths armed with dangerous weapons invade the church around 11am.

According to the head of the church, Prophet Matthew Iorhembe, the attackers vandalised chairs, musical instruments including drums and a keyboard, a public address system, unused floor tiles, windows, and even the roof of the building.

“They carried out the attack unchallenged. By the time police arrived, they had already left,” Prophet Iorhembe told journalists, adding that he was still at a loss as to why the church was targeted.

He confirmed that the police later arrested three suspects linked to the incident, while the matter has been reported to Gboko Local Government Chairman, Torseer Yina, and a former House of Representatives member for Gboko/Tarka constituency.

DSP Peter Orchia, Deputy Police Public Relations Officer in Benue State, confirmed the case, noting that Gboko ‘A’ Division is investigating.

The cleric urged members of his congregation to remain calm and allow security agencies to handle the matter, despite the “unprovoked and shocking” attack on a place of worship.