Nasarawa Cleric Jailed Over Debunked Herdsmen Attack Report, Draws Public Outcry!

Published 2 weeks ago2 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Nasarawa Cleric Jailed Over Debunked Herdsmen Attack Report, Draws Public Outcry!

A viral video shared by Evangelist Daniel Ukpo caused widespread concern on social media, alleging that Fulani herdsmen invaded Agboda Village in Nasarawa State, disrupting a crusade and prompting panic among attendees. Ukpo stated, "We came in for a crusade here and as I talking to you, some herdsmen invaded the place. You can see the youths. Everywhere, there is unrest." The footage quickly went viral, drawing condemnation from Nigerians online over the alleged chaos.

Following the video's dissemination, Apostle Michael Olowookere publicly criticized the Nasarawa State police for arresting Ukpo. Olowookere accused authorities of selectively targeting Christians while ignoring banditry and other violent acts in the region. He called on all Christians to demand Ukpo’s immediate release. Reports on X (formerly Twitter) indicated that Ukpo was detained for over 12 hours, while the Nasarawa State police initially refrained from commenting on the arrest.

The Nasarawa State Police Command later issued a formal statement through spokesperson SP Ramhan Nansel, refuting Ukpo’s claims. Nansel stated that no herdsmen attack or crusade disruption occurred in Agboda Village. Police investigations revealed that on November 24, 2025, a motorcyclist was attacked by unknown assailants along a feeder road leading to the village, resulting in a machete wound and the theft of his motorcycle. Vigilantes and police pursued the suspects, who abandoned the motorcycle and fled. The victim is now recovering in the hospital.

SP Nansel confirmed that Ukpo admitted there was no herdsmen attack and no crusade disruption. Ukpo explained that the video captured the panic of residents rushing to the scene of the robbery, leading to its misrepresentation online. Commissioner of Police, CP Shetima Jauro Mohammed, urged religious leaders to promote peace and cautioned against statements that could incite tension. He further appealed to journalists and the public to verify information before publication, preventing the spread of unverified reports and ensuring the safety and stability of Nasarawa State.

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