The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a Port Harcourt-based pastor over an alleged plot to assassinate the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The arrest comes amid an unresolved political confrontation between Wike and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, which has continued to heighten tensions across the state.
Security sources say the development has introduced a serious security angle to the ongoing struggle for political control and influence in Rivers State.
The suspect, Dr Tombari Joseph Gbeneol, is a medical doctor and founder of Life Forte Chapel Church, based in Port Harcourt.
He was arrested by operatives of the Intelligence Response Team attached to the Office of the Inspector-General of Police.
Investigators disclosed that the arrest followed surveillance of a telephone conversation allegedly involving Gbeneol and a former Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo.
According to security officials, the discussion raised alarm due to its sensitive nature and potential national security implications.
During the monitored conversation, the duo reportedly discussed plans to recruit foreign nationals to carry out an attack on the FCT Minister.
The discussion was also said to include efforts to secure funding to execute the alleged operation.
“The content of the call was considered a grave national security threat,” a senior security source said. “That was what triggered the immediate action by the IRT.”
Following intelligence evaluation, operatives swiftly moved in and arrested Gbeneol in Port Harcourt.
He has reportedly been in detention for nearly two weeks as investigations continue.
Confirming the arrest, the Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, stated,
“He is in our custody. Investigation is ongoing.”Police authorities have not released details of other suspects linked to the case.
However, investigators are said to be working to determine the roles of all individuals connected to the alleged plot.
Security agencies are also intensifying efforts to locate Danagogo, who is believed to have gone into hiding.Political Tension Deepens in Rivers
The arrest has sparked reactions across Rivers State, with residents expressing concern over rising political hostility.
Observers say the incident reflects growing tensions between camps loyal to Wike and supporters of Governor Fubara.
Recent political standoffs between both factions have disrupted governance and deepened divisions within the state’s political landscape.
