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The Catholic Diocese of Gboko has issued a strong public warning about an alleged impersonator falsely presenting himself as Rev. Fr. Gabriel Aondover Dav, urging residents of Benue State to exercise caution and avoid falling victim to fraudulent religious activities.
In a widely circulated statement, the Diocese identified the suspect as Igbududu Moses, reportedly from Ushongo Local Government Area. He is accused of posing as a legitimate Catholic priest and using social media platforms to promote the deception while engaging in extortion.
According to church authorities, the individual has been charging unsuspecting residents—particularly in rural communities—up to ₦35,000 for house blessings. He is also alleged to demand payment for holy water and other supposed religious services, practices the Diocese emphasized are completely inconsistent with Catholic doctrine.
“Priests do not commercialise sacraments or blessings,” the statement stressed. “Fada Dav cannot go about blessing houses for ₦35,000 or selling holy water.”
The Diocese noted that the suspect’s activities have reportedly intensified in Makurdi, where he continues to operate under the false identity. It directly addressed the impersonator, stating: “Dear Igbududu Moses, stop impersonating Rev. Fr. Gabriel Aondover Dav.”
Church leaders urged the public to verify the authenticity of any religious engagements, especially those involving payments, and to channel support for parish projects only through legitimate church authorities and recognized parish structures.
Residents were further advised to remain vigilant, report any suspicious religious activities to appropriate authorities, and avoid engaging with individuals claiming to offer spiritual services for money.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over fraudulent religious figures exploiting faith and trust in vulnerable communities across the state. No official report has confirmed any arrest or legal action against the suspect at the time of this publication.
