Operatives of the Bayelsa State Police Command’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit have arrested a pastor, Elijah Oro, for allegedly plotting to assassinate a rival prophet in the state.
The 59-year-old suspect, a native of Ozoro in Delta State, reportedly hired a 21-year-old man, Samuel Daniel, a member of the Greenlanders cult group, to carry out the attack.
Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, confirmed the arrests in a statement, saying they followed credible intelligence.
The two suspects were apprehended on January 28, 2026, at about 10:35 a.m. Daniel, from Nembe Ogbolomabiri Community, was arrested at the premises of the intended victim, while Pastor Oro was also taken into custody.
During preliminary interrogation, Daniel admitted being a member of the Greenlanders cult and claimed he was hired by Pastor Oro to execute the plan.
Police sources indicate the alleged plot may have stemmed from a dispute over church membership and property.
Investigations are ongoing to establish the full motive and circumstances surrounding the assassination attempt. Both suspects remain in custody.
The Bayelsa State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
