Heartbreaking: Nigerian Pastor Arrested After He Killed His Wife and Buried Her Under His Church Altar in Akwa Ibom (Photos)

 In a chilling and heartbreaking incident that has left the community in shock, a popular pastor based in Akwa Ibom State has been arrested for allegedly killing his wife and burying her beneath the altar of his church.

According to local authorities, Pastor Ezekiel Etim, founder of “Heaven’s Gate Prophetic Ministry” in Oron LGA, was apprehended following a tip-off from concerned members of the congregation who noticed a foul smell and suspicious activity around the church premises.

A Church Turned Crime Scene

The case took a dark turn when police officers, acting on a warrant, dug beneath the church altar where they shockingly discovered the decomposing body of the pastor’s wife, Grace Etim, wrapped in a plastic sheet and hidden beneath layers of cement.

Photos from the scene, too disturbing for the faint-hearted, show the moment investigators uncovered the shallow grave inside the church. The discovery has sparked widespread outrage both online and within the Akwa Ibom Christian community.

What Led to the Tragedy?

Neighbors and church members describe the couple as once loving but noted that recent months had been riddled with tension. Grace, 38, was reportedly outspoken about some “unholy practices” her husband was involved in behind the scenes. Sources say she had threatened to leave the marriage just days before her disappearance.

Police believe the motive may be tied to fears of exposure, financial disputes, or even ritualistic purposes — though investigations are still ongoing.

Community in Mourning

“We are devastated,” said a member of the church who preferred to remain anonymous. “Mama Grace was kind, prayerful, and deeply involved in charity. We can’t believe Pastor Ezekiel would do something this evil.”

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspect is currently in custody and will be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.

A Wake-Up Call

This tragic incident has reignited conversations around domestic violence, blind faith in religious leaders, and the urgent need for communities to speak up when things seem wrong — no matter how “anointed” someone appears to be.

As the state mourns the loss of a woman whose life was cut short in the most gruesome way, many are calling for justice — and asking hard questions about the people we trust behind the pulpit.