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

By Vincent Ujumadu

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.