Anambra State authorities arraign eight men described as pastors on alleged violations of the state’s Homeland Security Law, 2025, in connection with activities labeled as “fake” miracles or spiritually related practices. Reports say the arrests and court action occur across parts of the state, including Onitsha and Awka, following a government crackdown aimed at spiritualists it accuses of encouraging wrongdoing.
Premium Times reports that the Soludo administration is targeting native doctors and other spiritualists who allegedly aid criminality through practices such as making charms for armed robbers, kidnappers and terrorists. The Punch and Vanguard report that the eight pastors are charged over alleged breaches of the 2025 Homeland Security Law, with Vanguard noting the cases are filed before the State High Court sitting in Awka. The Punch adds that the pastors are remanded, indicating the court process continues rather than concluding with immediate convictions.
Across the reports, the common thread is that the state is using the Homeland Security Law to prosecute pastors accused of operating fraudulently or engaging in acts authorities deem harmful to security.
