Ex-Rivers SSG on the Run as Pastor Arrested in Alleged Wike Killing Plot

Authorities have arrested Dr. Tombari Joseph Gbeneol, a medical doctor and pastor of Life Forte Chapel Church, in connection with an alleged plan to assassinate the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Security sources told Sahara Reporters that the arrest followed the interception of a phone conversation between Gbeneol and Dr. Tammy Danagogo, the immediate past Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG). The discussion reportedly involved plans to recruit foreign nationals, allegedly Israeli citizens, to carry out the attack, and allegedly included a proposal to seek funding from Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

A senior security source described the intercepted communication as “a grave national security threat,” prompting the immediate response by the Inspector-General of Police Intelligence Response Team (IRT). The team, led by Commissioner of Police Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi, moved in and detained Gbeneol. He has reportedly been in custody for about two weeks.

Efforts are ongoing to locate Danagogo, who is believed to have gone into hiding since the matter came to light.

The Nigeria Police confirmed Gbeneol’s arrest but offered limited details. Force Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin said: “He is in our custody. Investigation is ongoing.”

Sources familiar with the case said detectives are working to uncover the full scope of the plot, including any possible accomplices. Investigators are also examining the involvement of external actors and any financial arrangements connected to the alleged plan.