Anambra Arrests Abia Guber Aspirant, 7 Others Over Alleged Fraud

The Anambra State Government has arraigned Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, a former governorship aspirant in Abia State, alongside seven others over alleged violations of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025.

Nwankpa, who is the Bishop of Chapel of Faith Ministry, Onitsha, was among eight self-acclaimed pastors brought before the State High Court in Awka on Friday as part of the state government’s ongoing crackdown on alleged religious fraud and criminal activities linked to spiritual practices.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), is leading the prosecution on behalf of the state government.

The other defendants are Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma, and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama.

According to the state government, the suspects are being prosecuted under the Homeland Security Law, 2025, which was enacted to combat kidnapping, cultism, ritual-related crimes and other security threats across the state.

In a statement published by Anambra State News Media on X, the government said the prosecution will deter individuals allegedly operating under the guise of religion and spirituality to exploit members of the public and support criminal networks.

“The Soludo administration has launched a broad crackdown on fake pastors, fake native doctors, and spiritualists who operate under the guise of religion to exploit the public and empower criminal networks across the state,” the statement said.

The Homeland Security Law established the state-backed security outfit, Agunechemba, to complement security agencies in tackling violent crimes and criminal facilitation.

Under the law, Agunechemba is empowered to investigate, arrest and prosecute individuals accused of providing spiritual or ritual cover for criminal activities. The legislation also imposes liability on collaborators who knowingly aid or enable crimes within their communities.

Property owners and custodians of buildings may face investigation or prosecution if their premises are used for criminal purposes, including ritual practices linked to fraud or kidnapping. Such properties may also be forfeited to the government following due legal process.

The law further places responsibility on community leaders and operators of informal religious and spiritual centres to report suspicious activities and prevent their facilities from being used for unlawful acts.

The Anambra State Government maintained that enforcement of the law is not directed at any religion or faith but criminal elements hiding under religious cover.