Pastor Receives Death Sentence for Murder of UNIUYO Student in Akwa Ibom

An Akwa Ibom High Court has sentenced a pastor, Prince Emmanuel Umoh, to death by hanging for the brutal murder of Gabriel Bassey Edward, a final year Engineering student at the University of Uyo.

Reports indicate that Umoh, serving as a resident pastor of Living Faith Church (popularly known as Winners Chapel), killed Edward in December 2020 at his residence located in Ifa Ikot Ubo-Ifa Ikot Okpon, Uyo.

Tragically, the victim's academic results, released posthumously, indicated that he graduated with First-Class honors. At only 23 years old, the loss of Edward has garnered significant public attention, especially given his posthumous accolades.

Following several legal proceedings, on February 19, 2026, the High Court in Akwa Ibom, under the presiding judge Hon. Justice Gabriel Nkanang, officially declared the self-proclaimed pastor guilty of murder and imposed the death penalty.

The circumstances surrounding Edward's death highlighted his conflict with Umoh, which reportedly escalated to a fatal encounter. According to eyewitness accounts, neighbors recounted hearing loud screams coming from the house on the night of the murder, with some noticing Umoh carrying buckets with visible blood stains shortly after the incident.

In response to the sentencing, human rights attorney Inihebe Effiong expressed gratitude to the legal representatives for their efforts and emphasized the need for churches to conduct rigorous evaluations of individuals they wish to ordain as ministers.

Effiong highlighted the need for justice in this case, noting that the court's decision was a step towards accountability. "I have received encouraging news from Edward's family. It is vital for churches to thoroughly vet those they ordain," he stated.

Furthermore, he recalled the distressing moment he visited the scene of the crime, where he observed bloodstains on the floor, a harrowing reminder of the tragic events that transpired inside that home. The evidence collected during the police investigation had included personal belongings of Edward which were found in the pastor’s residence.

Emana Edward, the deceased's father, received commendations for his courage in pursuing justice for his son following the verdict. As the trial concluded, the community has reflected deeply on the need for vigilance and thorough due diligence in leadership within religious institutions.

Overall, today's ruling serves as a difficult yet necessary closure to a painful chapter for Edward's family and the broader community, stressing the importance of justice and accountability within society.