Anambra Arraigns Eight Pastors Over Alleged Violation of Security Law

The Anambra State Government on Friday arraigned eight pastors before a court in Awka over alleged breaches of the state’s Homeland Security Law, which came into force in February 2025.

The clerics were arrested in locations including Onitsha, Awka and other communities across the state before being taken to the judiciary complex for legal proceedings.

According to state authorities, the law was introduced to address practices considered harmful to public welfare, particularly activities linked to promises of instant wealth and other forms of conduct viewed as misleading to members of the public.

Government officials stated that the pastors were brought before the court following investigations into their activities. The suspects facing prosecution are Peter Chukwu, Chinedu Egwuonwu, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, Ebele Nnachukwu, Ekeleme Chris Ugochukwu, Ndubisi Nnachukwu, Miracle Iruoma and Chukwukadibia Ogwuama.

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

The latest development follows previous actions taken by the state against individuals accused of promoting questionable wealth-related practices. Last year, several native doctors were arrested under similar circumstances. While some were convicted and sentenced, others are still facing trial.

The government maintains that the enforcement of the Homeland Security Law is aimed at protecting residents and ensuring that activities carried out within the state comply with existing regulations.

The court is expected to continue hearing the matter as the prosecution presents its case against the accused pastors.