Anambra Court jails native doctor, Onyeze Jesus, for false claims of supernatural powers

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By Vincent Ujumadu

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An Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka has sentenced a self-acclaimed prophet and native doctor, Onyebuchi Okocha, popularly known as Onyeze Jesus, to six years’ imprisonment for offences under the Anambra Homeland Security Law.

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The court also imposed a fine of ₦20 million on Okocha.

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The conviction forms part of the Anambra State Government’s ongoing campaign against alleged fraudulent spiritual practices and criminal activities linked to some self-styled native doctors.

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According to the prosecution, Okocha deceived members of the public by falsely claiming to possess supernatural powers and operating controversial spiritual schemes, including the widely publicised Oke-Ite rituals.

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The prosecution further alleged that his premises were used for activities that contravened the provisions of the Anambra Homeland Security Law.

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The conviction is one of several secured by the state government in its renewed crackdown on criminality, ritual-related offences and fraudulent practices allegedly carried out under the guise of religion and traditional worship.

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The enforcement campaign, initiated by the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has led to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of several self-acclaimed native doctors across the state.

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The government has maintained that individuals found to be engaging in activities that threaten public safety or exploit vulnerable citizens will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

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