Anambra Government Charges Eight Alleged Fake Pastors with Violating State Laws

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Eight pastors, mainly from Onitsha, Awka and other parts of Anambra State, were arraigned yesterday at the Anambra State High Court in the state judiciary complex, Awka.

Journalists were barred from covering the session. A government source, the media adviser to Anambra State Governor Mr. Ejimofor Opara, said the pastors, whom he described as “fake pastors,” had violated the 2025 Homeland Security Law.

The law, which came into effect in February 2025, targets certain religious practices that are considered inimical to the public, particularly those related to wealth creation.

Last year, several native doctors who promoted get‑rich‑quick schemes were also arrested. Some have been prosecuted and jailed, while others remain in trial.

The suspects were escorted into the courtroom by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Homeland Security, Prince Ken Emeakayi.

The eight suspects arraigned were Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama.

The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, led the prosecution against the suspects.

Details of their alleged offences had not yet been released to journalists by the Anambra State Government at the time of this report.