Cameroonian authorities are searching for a Nigerian cleric, Kedi Samuel Kenechukwu, also known as Ekedi Samuel, who is the founder of Mercy of God Ministry. He has been operating in Cameroon since 2018 and is wanted in connection with allegations including human trafficking, kidnapping, and unlawful arrest. The search for Kenechukwu comes after investigators discovered a mummified body buried beneath a concrete slab at a property linked to his church in Yaoundé.
The discovery of the body was made on September 19 at about 9 a.m. during investigations involving Kenechukwu. Police officers from the Nkoabang Special Police Station found a white-and-gold coffin buried about 1.5 metres beneath a concrete slab at a property in Nkoabang. Inside the coffin was a body believed initially to be that of a woman, dressed in a traditional blue outfit with gold embroidery, which appeared to have been deliberately preserved.
The investigation reportedly began after vandalism by residents exposed part of the property, prompting authorities to examine the area more closely. This recent discovery comes days after investigators searched the same property on September 9 and found several items, including five vehicles, hundreds of kilogrammes of food, functioning freezers, about 30 rooms, and a pit measuring about two metres deep.
Earlier, on September 6, security operatives discovered 20 people, including 10 women, eight men, and two children aged six and seven, in a basement at another property allegedly linked to the ministry in Ngousso, Yaoundé. The authorities have yet to establish the identity of the deceased or determine the circumstances surrounding the death.
Cameroonian authorities are reportedly awaiting the necessary authorisation to conduct further searches of the property amid concerns that additional remains could be found. The search for Kenechukwu and the investigation into the activities at the properties associated with his ministry are ongoing.
The case has raised concerns about the activities of the Mercy of God Ministry and the welfare of individuals associated with it. Authorities are working to uncover the truth behind the discovery of the mummified body and the allegations against Kenechukwu.
Kenechukwu's whereabouts are currently unknown, and authorities are urging him to come forward to assist with inquiries. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Key points
- The mummified body of an individual, believed to be a woman, was found buried in a church-linked property in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
- The Nigerian pastor, Kedi Samuel Kenechukwu, is wanted by Cameroonian authorities in connection with allegations including human trafficking, kidnapping, and unlawful arrest.
- Authorities are searching for Kenechukwu and investigating the activities at the properties associated with his ministry.
