Nigerian native doctor 'Onyeze Jesus' jailed for false supernatural claims
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A self-proclaimed prophet and native doctor, Onyebuchi Okocha, known as Onyeze Jesus, has been sentenced to six years in prison in Anambra State, Nigeria.
- The court also fined him โฆ20 million for making false claims of supernatural powers and operating controversial spiritual schemes.
- His conviction is part of the state government's campaign against fraudulent spiritual practices and criminal activities under the guise of religion.
An Anambra State High Court has sentenced a self-styled prophet and native doctor, Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as Onyeze Jesus, to six years imprisonment and a โฆ20 million fine. The court found Okocha guilty of offenses under the Anambra Homeland Security Law.
The conviction stems from Okocha's alleged deception of the public through false claims of possessing supernatural powers and operating controversial spiritual schemes, including the widely publicized Oke-Ite rituals. Prosecutors argued that his premises were used for activities that contravened state security laws.
This sentencing is a key outcome of the Anambra State Government's ongoing campaign against alleged fraudulent spiritual practices and criminal activities associated with some self-proclaimed native doctors. Governor Chukwuma Soludo's administration has been actively pursuing individuals engaging in activities that threaten public safety or exploit vulnerable citizens.
The government has reiterated its commitment to prosecuting offenders in accordance with the law. This crackdown has led to the arrest, prosecution, and conviction of several individuals across the state who allegedly operated under the guise of religion and traditional worship.
Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.