Fraud: Anambra native doctor jailed six years

An Anambra State High Court has sentenced a popular native doctor, Onyebuchi Okocha, also known as “Onyeze Jesus,” to six years in prison and imposed a N20 million fine. The conviction stems from charges under the Anambra Homeland Security Law, specifically for misleading the public by claiming supernatural powers could create wealth.

“

Individuals who claim supernatural powers capable of making people wealthy through prohibited practices or preparing charms outlawed by the Anambra Homeland Security Law are liable to imprisonment and financial penalties.

Justice Jude Obiora found Okocha guilty on one of three charges after his arrest in February 2025. The court considered viral social media videos where Okocha promoted wealth creation through spiritual means. Okocha admitted to being the person in the videos and owning the social media accounts used for promotion. The judge emphasized that the defendant propagated the idea that wealth could be acquired through supernatural means rather than lawful work.

“

My Lord, please temper justice with mercy because this is my first offence and this is the first time that I am having a court case.

However, Okocha was acquitted on two other counts related to ritual killings and money-doubling schemes. The prosecution failed to provide evidence or witnesses to support these allegations. Justice Obiora stated that individuals claiming supernatural wealth-creation powers or preparing prohibited charms under the Anambra Homeland Security Law face imprisonment and fines.

“

According to the court, he was given the maximum sentence and we shall apply for the Certified True Copy of the judgment. We will look into it and then know the appropriate steps to take.

During the sentencing, Okocha pleaded for leniency, citing his first offense and the hardship his detention caused his family, including his wife and twin children, and three widows who depended on him. His lawyer, Bath Ezedinobi, indicated they would review the judgment before deciding on an appeal. The state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, affirmed the judgment as a strong endorsement of the state's Homeland Security Law.

“

We b