The Nigeria Police Force has warned worshippers against publicly disclosing sensitive personal and financial information during church testimonies following the foiling of an alleged plot to kidnap a female cleric in Abuja.
Four members of the same church were arrested over the alleged plan to abduct Prophetess Elizabeth, who was reportedly targeted after sharing a testimony about her achievements and business success during a church service.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Adamu Muazu, who heads the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), disclosed this on Thursday, October 8, 2026, while presenting the suspects to journalists. He said the alleged kidnappers planned to carry out the operation after an evening church service.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly included the cleric’s driver and a bodyguard to the church’s senior pastor. Their reported connections to the victim have raised concerns about how personal information and trusted relationships could potentially be exploited for criminal purposes.
Muazu cautioned worshippers against assuming that everyone attending religious gatherings has good intentions. He also urged church leaders, particularly those operating in isolated areas, to improve security arrangements and ensure members can safely leave their premises after evening services.
The police chief advised religious institutions to pay closer attention to access roads, entrances and exits, while providing adequate security guidance for worshippers.
The incident has renewed concerns about security at religious gatherings and the need for individuals and institutions to take precautions against potential threats.
Police investigations into the alleged conspiracy are ongoing.
