A Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) pastor, Deacon Steve Eyo, has died after collapsing while delivering a sermon at a funeral service in Aleto community, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The incident occurred on Friday, October 2, leaving members of the community and mourners at the funeral in shock.
According to reports, Eyo was officiating at the funeral and was preaching on the topic, “The Certainty of Death and Hope Beyond."
During the sermon, the pastor reportedly told mourners that death is inevitable and can come at any time. He compared life to a visit to the market, explaining that while some people leave early and others stay longer, everyone eventually leaves.
About 15 minutes into the sermon, Eyo suddenly collapsed, causing his microphone to fall to the ground.
Some attendees initially thought the collapse was part of his illustration about the unpredictability of death. However, it soon became clear that he was experiencing a medical emergency.
Church ministers and members reportedly moved him to the back of the venue, where prayers were offered while people with medical knowledge attempted to provide first aid.
An eyewitness later said the pastor had stopped breathing.
He was subsequently taken to a nearby hospital in the ambulance that had been hired to transport the remains of the deceased whose funeral was being held.
The pastor was pronounced dead at the hospital, after which his remains were taken to a mortuary.
The incident has left members of the RCCG congregation and residents of Aleto community mourning.
