“Suspicious” suicide of the general overseer – Police

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has launched a thorough investigation into the alleged circumstances surrounding the death of a cleric, Etetim Udo, in the state.
The Command Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, said this in a statement in Uyo on Saturday.
John disclosed that the deceased was the founder and general supervisor of “Power in God’s Word for World Ministries” Oron, Akwa Ibom.
According to her, the command received a distress call from a resident who said that upon arriving at the church premises, where he usually parks his motorcycle, on July 23, at around 8:18 am, he noticed an unusual gathering.
“He said he was later informed by the deceased’s children that their father would take his own life.”
The PPRO said that officers from the command immediately mobilized to the scene following the report.
He added that preliminary observations revealed that the deceased was found suspended by a twisted mosquito net rope.
John said the scene was professionally examined by detectives, with photographs taken and relevant exhibits recovered to aid the forensic examination and further investigation.
“The body was transported to hospital, where the doctor on duty confirmed his death.
“His remains have been deposited at the morgue pending an autopsy, although preliminary findings indicate a case of suspected suicide,” he said.
He said the command wanted to emphasize that investigations are underway to establish the exact circumstances of the accident and exclude any other possibilities.
It quoted the state police commissioner, Baba Azare, assuring the public that the investigation would be thorough, impartial and professionally conducted.
Azare appealed for anyone with useful information that could help the investigation to come forward and co-operate with the police.
He urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could mislead investigations or cause unnecessary public anxiety.
He reassured that the command remains committed to ensuring that every reported incident is thoroughly investigated in the interests of justice, whilst continuing to protect lives and property across the State.