The Akwa Ibom State High Court has handed down a death sentence to Pastor Prince Emmanuel Umoh for the brutal murder of Gabriel Bassey Edward, a final-year Engineering student at the University of Uyo.
The shocking crime, which occurred in December 2020, sent ripples of grief across Akwa Ibom and the academic community.
Gabriel Bassey Edward, aged 23, was a bright and ambitious student whose academic excellence was unmatched.
Following his tragic death, the release of his results revealed that he had graduated with a First-Class degree, a testament to his dedication and intellect.
His promising future was cruelly cut short by the heinous actions of the self-proclaimed pastor, Prince Emmanuel Umoh.
The murder occurred at Edward’s residence in Ifa Ikot Ubo-Ifa Ikot Okpon, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where Prince Emmanuel, a resident pastor of Living Faith Church—popularly known as Winners Chapel—had rented part of the home to establish his church parish.
Neighbors reported hearing anguished screams from the house on the fateful night.
They also observed the pastor carrying buckets stained with blood and, when confronted, he attempted to explain it as part of his prayer ritual.
Police investigations revealed that the pastor had retained some of Gabriel’s personal belongings in his residence.
The chilling evidence, coupled with witness testimonies, painted a clear picture of the crime. Gabriel Bassey Edward was reportedly the last person seen with Prince Emmanuel before his death.
The motive appeared linked to Gabriel’s generosity in allowing the pastor to use part of his home, highlighting the senselessness of the crime.
Justice was finally served on 19th February 2026, when Hon. Justice Gabriel Nkanang, presiding over the case, found Prince Emmanuel Umoh guilty of murder and sentenced him to death by hanging.
The ruling brought a measure of closure to the grieving family, five years after the tragic event.
Human rights lawyer Inihebe Effiong, who has been closely following the case, praised the prosecution and urged religious institutions to exercise caution when ordaining ministers.
“Gabriel Bassey Edward’s life was tragically ended by someone he trusted,” Effiong stated.
“Churches must carry out thorough background checks to prevent such tragedies in the future.”
Effiong also recounted the harrowing details he witnessed during the investigation. Visiting Gabriel’s home shortly after the murder, he saw bloodstains on the floor and on plastic chairs where Prince Emmanuel had conducted his church services.
“It was a deeply traumatizing experience,” he said, reflecting on the horror of that night.
Special commendation was given to the diligent efforts of the prosecution team, led by Ms. Iniobong Essang of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Justice.
Essang meticulously presented evidence and witnesses that linked Prince Emmanuel Umoh to the murder, ensuring that justice was not denied.
Photographs from the court proceedings show her with Gabriel’s father, Emana Edward, and his brother, Emmanuel Bassey Edward, as she pursued justice on behalf of the family.
Gabriel Bassey Edward was remembered not only for his academic brilliance but also for his outspoken nature.
He frequently spoke truth to power on social media, and his courage in expressing his views made him a respected figure among peers.
Despite his young age, Gabriel demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a commitment to integrity, which made his loss even more heartbreaking.
The tragedy also highlighted the vulnerability of students and young professionals who may unknowingly place trust in individuals with hidden agendas.
Gabriel’s only “crime” was allowing a pastor to use part of his home, demonstrating his generosity and good nature.
His murder serves as a stark reminder that vigilance and caution are necessary in personal and community relationships.
Effiong used the opportunity to advise religious institutions across Akwa Ibom and Nigeria at large: “The case of Gabriel Bassey Edward should serve as a warning.
“Churches must carefully screen individuals before ordaining them as ministers to protect congregants and innocent citizens alike.”
The courage of Gabriel’s family, particularly his father, Emana Edward, and his brother, Emmanuel Bassey Edward, was widely praised.
Their determination to seek justice over a span of five years demonstrated resilience and commitment to upholding the law.
Their relentless pursuit ensured that Prince Emmanuel Umoh could not evade accountability for his actions.
The verdict brings a sense of justice and closure not only for Gabriel’s family but also for the wider community that had been shaken by the violent crime.
It underscores the role of law enforcement, diligent prosecution, and the judicial system in holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their social or religious standing.
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