The Anambra State Government has sealed off a well-known religious establishment, Children of the Light Anointing Ministry, over allegations of involvement in ritual activities.
The church, situated in Amafor village, Nkpor, within the Idemili North Local Government Area, was shut down due to suspected links to the controversial “Oke-Ite” ritual practice.
The state government confirmed the closure in a statement issued to journalists.
“Oke-Ite” is described as a ritualistic concoction made from human remains, animals, and herbs, stored in a mud pot, and allegedly used for money rituals.
Authorities have identified the practice as a deceptive scheme employed by native doctors to exploit unsuspecting individuals.
The church, led by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as ‘Onye Eze Jesus’, was sealed by operatives of the state security outfit ‘Agunechemba’ during an official visit to the premises.
Officials reportedly discovered various substances, including containers and other suspicious items, at the site.
Commenting on the closure, Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, stated that the decision followed public complaints and the circulation of a video in which the pastor allegedly admitted to engaging in the “Oke-Ite” ritual and other questionable practices.
Emeakayi further disclosed that forensic experts will examine liquid substances collected from the church, as well as water samples from River Bethsaida, where the pastor, also known as ‘Aka na Asa Uchu’, is said to conduct spiritual cleansing rituals.
The investigation aims to determine any potential health risks associated with the practice.
He emphasized that while the government respects religious freedom, it will not condone practices that encourage fraudulent wealth-seeking schemes.
The Anambra State Government remains committed to eliminating deceptive religious and ritualistic activities within the state.