Police warn worshippers against revealing wealth after foiled Abuja kidnap plot

The Nigeria Police Force has advised worshippers to exercise caution when publicly discussing their wealth, businesses and personal achievements during religious testimonies after officers foiled an alleged plot to kidnap a female cleric in Abuja.

Four suspects were arrested over the alleged plan to abduct a woman identified as Prophetess Elizabeth, an assistant pastor.

Police said information she disclosed while giving a testimony about her achievements and business success was allegedly used by some members of the congregation to plan her abduction.

Driver, pastor’s bodyguard among suspects

Deputy Commissioner of Police Adamu Muazu, who heads the Intelligence Response Team, disclosed details of the case while parading the suspects.

According to police, one of the suspects had worked as Prophetess Elizabeth’s driver, while another was a bodyguard attached to the church’s senior pastor.

Both were reportedly members of the same congregation.

Police investigators alleged that the suspects planned to abduct the cleric after an evening service.

Additional reporting on the investigation said the group allegedly intended to stage an incident involving a vehicle to force the woman to stop before abducting her.

Investigators also alleged that the suspects communicated through a WhatsApp group while planning the operation.

A vehicle and a locally fabricated firearm were recovered during the investigation, according to reports of the police briefing.

Police urge caution with church testimonies

Muazu said worshippers should not automatically assume that everyone attending a religious gathering has good intentions.

He advised people to be particularly careful about publicly revealing information about their finances, businesses, assets or other personal circumstances that criminals could potentially exploit.

The police warning does not mean worshippers have been told to stop giving testimonies altogether.

Rather, the advice centres on avoiding unnecessary disclosure of sensitive financial and personal information that could expose individuals to security risks.

Churches urged to improve security

Police also called on religious organisations, particularly churches located in isolated areas, to strengthen security around their premises.

Muazu said churches holding evening services should pay particular attention to access roads, entrances, exits and the safety of worshippers returning home after services.

The alleged Abuja plot highlights the additional risk created when people with access to a potential victim’s routines and movements are involved.

Police said investigations were continuing to determine the full extent of the alleged conspiracy and whether additional individuals were involved.

The four arrested individuals remain suspects, and the allegations against them have not been established by a court.