The head of the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN), Rev. Dr. Daniel Mbaya, has urged pastors to prioritize their health by scheduling regular medical checkups. Expressing concern over the rising cases of sudden deaths among clergy, he highlighted the recent passing of Rev. Vincent Alaku on October 6, 2024, as a tragic example.
Rev. Alaku, a minister with the EYN church in Maiduguri, Northeast Nigeria, collapsed and passed away while officiating a worship service. According to family member Sandra Alaku Stephen, Rev. Alaku suffered a cardiac arrest while performing a child dedication ceremony, a key church ordinance. “Doctors confirmed his death was due to cardiac arrest. God gives, and He takes,” said Stephen.
The unexpected incident threw the congregation into disarray, abruptly ending the worship service. Church member Malikson Papaman paid tribute, expressing his grief: “My heart bleeds as I struggle to accept the loss of our beloved pastor. His powerful sermon on family unity in worship still echoes in my mind. Little did I know it would be his final message. I feel honored to have been under his guidance. His legacy will remain in our hearts.”
Rev. Mbaya shared the church’s collective grief, describing Rev. Alaku as a devoted servant of God. “The EYN family mourns his passing. May his memory inspire us to live with integrity and compassion,” he said.
Emphasizing the importance of health, Rev. Mbaya reminded pastors and church staff to care for themselves as part of leading a purposeful life. “We cannot control time. Many unforeseen factors can take us away. If we live in sin, there may be no time to repent. Let us cherish each moment and strive to leave a positive impact,” he admonished.
He offered prayers for Rev. Alaku’s family, seeking God’s comfort and strength for them during this difficult period.
Rev. Timothy Hammajam, the District Secretary of the Church of the Brethren in Maiduguri, described Rev. Alaku as “a visionary leader with a clear focus,” further highlighting his impactful ministry.
