Residents of Ibusa, popularly known as Igbuzo, were thrown into shock and mourning on Tuesday following the gruesome killing of a Pentecostal Bishop, identified as Clarence James Chinedu, at his residence.
The tragic incident, which has sent fear across the community, was said to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when the cleric was allegedly attacked and murdered in cold blood by his personal driver.
According to sources close to the family, the late Bishop was reportedly struck at the back of his head with a mortar, leading to his immediate death before any medical assistance could get to him.
The alleged killer, Uchenna from orlu whose full identity was yet to be officially disclosed at the time of filing this report, reportedly fled the scene after the incident with the deceased’s Prado Jeep.
Security sources disclosed that the suspect escaped towards Awkuzu in neighboring Anambra State, where he allegedly attempted to dispose of the stolen vehicle at the sum of Ten Million Naira ( N10m ) before he was apprehended by security operatives.
It was gathered that officers of the Nigeria Police Force, who had already launched a manhunt immediately after the incident was reported, tracked the suspect to Awkuzu and arrested him barely 24 hours after the murder.
The suspect is currently in police custody as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shocking killing.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions across Ibusa, with many residents describing the murder as heartbreaking, tragic, and disturbing, especially considering the close relationship between the deceased and the suspect, who reportedly served as his personal driver.
Friends, church members, and sympathizers who visited the residence of the late Bishop were seen in deep sorrow as they struggled to come to terms with the tragic development.
Some community leaders have called on security agencies to ensure a thorough investigation and speedy prosecution of anyone found connected to the crime.
As of the time of this report, the Delta State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident, but reliable sources confirmed that investigations were ongoing.
The killing of the respected cleric has once again raised growing concerns over insecurity, betrayal of trust, and violent crimes within society, with many residents urging citizens to remain vigilant and security conscious at all times.