A Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, orders Prophet Tamarauebi Elisha Owan, founder of GreatGod Holy Tabernacle, to pay ₦200 million in damages for the destruction of a traditional Egbesu shrine. The shrine is described in reports as a place where Niger Delta leader Chief Government Ekpemupolo (popularly known as Tompolo) and other individuals serve as chief priests. The judgment is delivered by Justice H.A. Nganjiwa on 29 June 2026.
According to the accounts, the court finds the prophet’s actions unlawful and unconstitutional. The decision also states that the conduct violates rights relating to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. In addition to the damages award, the court issues a mandatory injunction requiring Owan and his congregation to rebuild the Osuopele Beniseide Opu-Oru Temple, which was reportedly destroyed.
The case relates to events on 20 December 2024, when Owan and members of his church allegedly stormed the temple in the Ojobo community, claiming they were combating evil spirits, and caused extensive damage.
