A High Court in Anambra State has sentenced controversial self-acclaimed prophet and native doctor, Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as Onyeze Jesus, to six years’ imprisonment and imposed a ₦20 million fine after convicting him under the Anambra Homeland Security Law.
The judgment, delivered on Friday, is regarded as one of the most significant convictions recorded in the state government’s ongoing crackdown on alleged fraudulent spiritual practices and criminal activities linked to some self-styled native doctors.
The court found Okocha guilty of deceiving members of the public by falsely claiming to possess supernatural powers and operating controversial spiritual schemes, including the widely publicised Oke-Ite rituals.
Prosecutors also alleged that his religious premises were used to facilitate unlawful activities, contrary to the provisions of the Anambra Homeland Security Law.
In his judgment, the trial judge sentenced the convict to six years’ imprisonment and ordered him to pay a fine of ₦20 million.
The conviction is the latest in a series of prosecutions undertaken by the Anambra State Government as part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s campaign against criminality, ritual-related offences and fraudulent practices allegedly perpetrated under the guise of religion and traditional worship. Africans& Diaspora
The renewed enforcement drive has led to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of several high-profile native doctors across the state, with the government insisting that no individual involved in activities that threaten public safety or exploit vulnerable citizens will be spared.
Observers say the conviction of Onyeze Jesus sends a strong signal that the state government is determined to enforce the law and hold accountable individuals who use religious or traditional beliefs as a cover for fraud and other criminal activities.
State authorities have reiterated their commitment to sustaining the ongoing crackdown on illegal spiritual practices and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice in accordance with the law.
About Author
