Eight pastors arrested in Anambra, charged to court by state govt

The Anambra State Government on Friday arraigned eight pastors before a High Court sitting in Awka over alleged violations of the state’s Homeland Security Law, 2025.

The defendants are Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Emeka Nwankpa, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama.

They were brought before the court by operatives of the state security outfit, Agunechemba, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Ken Emeakayi.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), is leading the prosecution.

The arraignment comes amid the state government’s ongoing crackdown on individuals it describes as fake pastors, native doctors and spiritualists allegedly involved in activities that promote criminality.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo had earlier disclosed that several suspects were in custody as part of the enforcement of the Homeland Security Law.

Speaking at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka, in May, Soludo said the government had intensified efforts against persons allegedly exploiting members of the public under the guise of religious activities.

“The state has commenced an ongoing crackdown on fake pastors who exploit the vulnerable by preaching the gospel of salvation without the cross. As I speak now, several of them are already in custody and confessing,” he said.

Source: Punch