Anambra cleric faces disciplinary action from Anglican church amid claims of fabricated spiritual healings

The Church of Nigeria, under the Anglican Communion, has taken disciplinary action against Reverend Ifunaya Maduka, suspending him as Vicar of St Paul’s Parish in Nteje, Anambra State, due to allegations of staging fake miracles and prophecies.

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Maduka's six-month suspension without pay was imposed after he was found to have engaged in practices deemed "grossly unbecoming" of an Anglican priest, including orchestrating miracles and prophetic sessions with paid participants.

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The Bishop on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Owen Nwokolo, led the church in its allegations against Maduka, claiming that he used individuals known to him to stage divine manifestations, which were later found to be manipulated and arranged.

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When confronted with evidence, Maduka admitted to his involvement in the staged miracles and prophecies, prompting the church to take disciplinary action to address his conduct.

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A letter dated April 27, signed by Rt. Rev. Owen Nwokolo, conveyed the suspension to Maduka, citing his practices as inconsistent with the standards expected of clergy members within the communion.

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The letter expressed deep sadness and concern over Maduka's actions, which included arranged and manipulated prophecies, and noted that he had previously been commended for his knowledge, conduct, and doctrine.

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Despite initial denials, Maduka's admissions revealed a pattern of behavior that was troubling and inconsistent with the teachings of Christ and the ethos of the Anglican Church.

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The church's investigation found that Maduka's conduct raised grave concerns, including false prophecy, abuse of God's name, deception of the faithful, and potential fraud.

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Such actions were deemed wholly inconsistent with the calling and responsibilities of an ordained minister, and the church emphasized that it does not condone evil or harbor conduct that contradicts Christian doctrine.

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Maduka's actions were seen as bringing dishonor to the name of Jesus Christ, grieving the Holy Spirit, and ridiculing the image of the Diocese, prompting the church to take swift action.

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As a result, Maduka was suspended for six months without pay, effective immediately, and was directed to hand over all church properties and vacate the premises within four days.

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A disciplinary panel will be constituted within the next month to investigate the matter further and determine any additional action necessary, in accordance with the church's discipline and regulations.

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The church concluded by expressing hope that Maduka would repent and amend his ways, serving the Lord with a sincere and faithful heart.