THE Anambra State Government on Friday arraigned eight pastors before a High Court in Awka for alleged violations of the state’s Homeland Security Law, 2025. The case marks the latest move in Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s crackdown on what the government calls “fake pastors” and spiritualists linked to criminal activity.
The defendants brought before the court are Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Emeka Nwankpa, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama.
They were presented by operatives of Agunechemba, the state security outfit. The operation was led by Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security. The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, is leading the prosecution.
The arraignment is part of an ongoing enforcement of the Homeland Security Law, 2025. The law targets individuals the state describes as fake pastors, native doctors, and spiritualists allegedly involved in practices that promote criminality and exploit residents.
Governor Soludo first disclosed the arrests in May while speaking at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka. He said the government had intensified efforts against persons allegedly using religion to defraud and deceive the public.
“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,” Soludo said at the time.
While the specific charges were not detailed in court documents released so far, the government’s position is that some individuals operate under the guise of religious activities to engage in acts that threaten public safety and order. The Homeland Security Law, 2025, gives the state broader powers to regulate such activities and prosecute offenders.
The eight pastors are expected to enter pleas as the case proceeds. Court proceedings will determine whether the allegations against them meet the standard required under the new law.
The arrests and arraignment have sparked discussion across Anambra, with residents divided between those who support the crackdown on exploitative practices and those concerned about religious freedom. Religious leaders and civil society groups are expected to weigh in as the trial progresses.
The state government maintains that the enforcement is aimed at protecting citizens from fraud and criminal exploitation, not at targeting genuine religious practice.
The court has adjourned the matter for further hearing. The defendants remain in custody pending the court’s decision on bail and next steps.
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