Tragedy struck at Church of the Brethren (EYN) Moduganari in Maiduguri, Borno State, when a pastor, Reverend Alaku Vincent, suddenly slumped and died during a child dedication on Sunday.
According to social media reports on Sunday, Vincent was in the midst of the ceremony when he collapsed and lost consciousness.
Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead shortly after that.
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The cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Church members and colleagues took to social media to mourn the loss of their beloved pastor.
In a Facebook post, the District Church Secretary of Church Brethren of Nigeria, Timothy Hammajam described the deceased as “a visionary leader with focus.”
He added, “KBC DCM 2003 graduating class will ever miss your elderly and prophetic words. May God comfort EYN and your family.”
A church member with the Facebook name Prince Malikson Papaman shared a tribute: “Just a few hours ago, he stood confidently on the altar… passionately shepherding his flock.
“His powerful message still resonates in my mind, as he emphasized the importance of family unity in worship.
“Little did I know it would be his final sermon.”
Papaman described Vincent’s departure as leaving an “unfillable void” but took comfort in the Bible’s assurance that his death is but a sleep.
He concluded, “Rest in eternal peace, Rev. Vincent Alaku. Until we meet again.”