Another Anambra native doctor jailed over false claims of supernatural powers

---

---

By Madu Obi

An Anambra 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.

The court also imposed a ₦20 million fine on Okocha in line with the provisions of the Anambra Homeland Security Law.

The conviction is part of the state government's ongoing crackdown on alleged fraudulent spiritual practices and criminal activities linked to some self-styled native doctors.

The court found Okocha guilty of deceiving 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 had alleged that the native doctor's premises were used to facilitate unlawful activities, contrary to the provisions of the Anambra Homeland Security Law.

The conviction is the latest in a series of prosecutions undertaken by the Anambra State government as part of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's campaign against criminality, ritual-related offences and fraudulent practices allegedly perpetrated under the guise of religion and traditional worship.

The renewed enforcement drive had led to the arrest, prosecution and conviction of several high-profile native doctors across the state, with the government insisting that no individual involved in activities that threaten public safety or exploit vulnerable citizens will be spared.