Pastor Edidiong Sylvester, a Nigerian clergyman, claimed that while travelling on the Calabar bypass road, a strange bird flew close to his vehicle and was suddenly halted by what he described as the power of God, preventing it from moving away. He shared photographs of the bird on his social media accounts and thanked God for the intervention.
**What did the pastor say about the bird?**
Sylvester explained that the bird is known for “crying at midnight” and is allegedly employed by “forces of darkness” for various tasks. He asserted that the bird landed in the middle of the road, and as his vehicle approached, divine power “arrested” the creature, leaving it unable to leave the spot.
**How did he respond to the incident?**
According to his post, the pastor stepped out of the car, spoke in tongues, and lifted the bird, emphasizing that the event demonstrated God’s heavy presence with him. He further declared a “Holy Ghost fire” for the remaining months of the year, citing Psalm 110:1‑2, which he quoted as a promise of divine strength against enemies.
**What biblical reference did he use?**
The pastor invoked the [Bible](https://www.biblegateway.com) passage Psalm 110, stating: “Out of Zion shall go forth the rod of thy strength, rule thou in the midst of thy enemies.” He interpreted this as a guarantee of safety and victory over evil for his followers.
**Background on the location**
The incident took place on the bypass road surrounding [Calabar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calabar), the capital of Cross River State in southern [Nigeria](https://www.gov.ng). The region is known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife, which sometimes leads to unusual encounters on rural roads.
**Public reaction**
The pastor’s testimony quickly sparked debate online, with some users expressing belief in the supernatural claim, while others questioned its authenticity. The post attracted numerous comments and shares, highlighting the ongoing interest in spiritual experiences within Nigerian society.
**Key details**
- Pastor Edidiong Sylvester posted the claim on social media in October 2026.
- The bird was described as a midnight‑crying species used by dark forces.
- Sylvester said he spoke in tongues and lifted the bird after it was “arrested” by God.
- He declared a protective “Holy Ghost fire” for the rest of the year, referencing Psalm 110.
- The event occurred on the Calabar bypass road, a major thoroughfare in Cross River State.
The story remains a point of discussion, reflecting the blend of faith and folklore that often surfaces in Nigerian public discourse.