The Anambra State Government has arraigned eight pastors before a high court in Awka over alleged violations of the state’s Homeland Security Law 2025, including staging “arranged” miracles with hired actors to deceive and exploit worshippers.
The defendants — Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma, and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama — were brought to court on Friday by operatives of Agunechemba, the state security network.
The state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, led the prosecution.
The charges include wielding fake supernatural powers, using places of worship to commit crimes contrary to sections 18(3) and 19(1) of the Homeland Security Law, and obtaining money by false pretence under the Advance Fee Fraud Act.
After the arraignment, the court remanded the pastors in a correctional facility. The matter was adjourned to June 15, 2026, for hearing of bail applications.
The development is part of Chukwuma Soludo’s intensified crackdown on individuals exploiting the public under the guise of religion.
Weeks earlier, Soludo said several “fake pastors” were in custody and confessing, while vowing to rid the state of deceptive practices that prey on vulnerable citizens.
He had challenged miracle-performing pastors to demonstrate genuine healings at public hospitals like Amaku.
The state government views the alleged activities as not only fraudulent but also linked to broader criminality that undermines public safety and security.