Awka, Nigeria – Anambra State authorities have shut down a well-known religious organization, Children of the Light Anointing Ministry, led by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as “Onye Eze Jesus,” over alleged involvement in ritualistic activities linked to the controversial Oke-Ite traditional practice.
The enforcement action was carried out by operatives of Agunechemba, a state security outfit, during a visit to the church premises in Amafor village, Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area, on Sunday. Reports indicate that various items, including containers suspected to contain ritualistic substances, were discovered at the location.
State Crackdown on Ritual Activities
This move is the latest in a series of high-profile crackdowns on ritualistic and fraudulent spiritual practices in Anambra. Over the past months, security agencies have arrested several native doctors and spiritualists suspected of engaging in money rituals and deceitful practices. The state government has also sealed multiple shrines linked to Oke-Ite rituals, which allegedly involve using human parts, animals, and herbs in a mud pot to perform wealth-enhancing rituals.
The crackdown aligns with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration’s recent policy against ritual activities and deceptive spiritual practices. In 2023, the Anambra State government enacted a law prohibiting any form of ritual killings, fraud, and spiritual activities that promote a “get-rich-quick” mentality. Under the law, individuals found guilty of participating in money rituals or fraudulent spiritual schemes face severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment and asset forfeiture.
Government’s Position and Investigation
Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, confirmed the closure of the church while leading members of Operation Udo Ga-Achi to the site. He cited public complaints and a viral video in which the pastor allegedly admitted to engaging in Oke-Ite rituals as grounds for the state’s intervention.
“The Anambra State government will not tolerate any religious practices that deceive or exploit people in the name of spirituality,” Emeakayi stated. “Forensic experts will analyze the liquid substances found at the ministry, and further investigations will be conducted to assess any health risks associated with ritualistic baths reportedly performed in River Bethsaida.”
The pastor, also known as Aka na Asa Uchu, gained prominence for his unique ritual practices, including leading his followers to the river for alleged spiritual cleansing. The government’s ongoing investigation aims to determine whether these activities pose public health risks or violate the state’s anti-ritual laws.
Public Reaction and Call for Action
The crackdown has received mixed reactions from residents, with many supporting the government’s stance against ritual practices that exploit people’s desperation for wealth. However, some followers of Children of the Light Anointing Ministry insist that their pastor is being unfairly targeted.
Religious organizations and civil society groups have commended the state government’s firm approach in tackling fraudulent spiritual practices. They urge authorities to intensify efforts in sensitizing the public about the dangers of ritual practices and financial scams disguised as religious activities.
With the government reinforcing its commitment to ending ritual-related fraud, more investigations and enforcement actions are expected across the state. Residents have been encouraged to report suspicious spiritual practices to security agencies as the crackdown continues.
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