Worshippers in Uromi, Edo State, have reportedly been left distressed after a visiting pastor allegedly disappeared with their mobile phones during a prayer crusade.
The incident occurred after the pastor reportedly instructed members of the congregation to drop their phones at the altar before the commencement of prayers.
However, the cleric allegedly disappeared with the devices while the programme was ongoing, leaving the worshippers stranded.
Videos circulating on social media show some of the affected members lamenting the loss, with several women seen crying over their missing phones.
In one of the videos shared by YabaLeftOnline, a distressed woman is heard repeatedly expressing concern about how she would cope without her phone.
Another woman is heard saying, “I don’t know what I’m going to do,” while other voices in the background lament the loss of their belongings.
A man recording the incident is also heard saying, “We don cast for 419,” suggesting that the worshippers believe they have been defrauded.
Meanwhile, details surrounding the pastor’s identity, the number of phones allegedly taken and whether the incident has been reported to the police remain unclear.
The incident has sparked reactions on social media, with several users questioning why the worshippers surrendered their phones to the pastor.
Some commenters also advised the affected members to contact their banks over concerns that banking applications and other personal information could be accessed through the missing devices.
Kehinde Ayanboade
Kehinde Ayanboade is the Managing Editor and Publisher of Naija Metro News, with over eight years of experience covering Nigerian politics, crime, legislative proceedings and metropolitan affairs.
