Anambra Court Jails Native Doctor Six Years, Imposes ₦20m Fine

An Anambra State High Court in Awka has sentenced popular native doctor, Onyebuchi Okocha, widely known as Onyeze Jesus, to six years in prison and fined him ₦20 million for violating the Anambra Homeland Security Law.

Justice Jude Obiora delivered the judgment on Friday after finding Okocha guilty of misleading the public by claiming he possessed supernatural powers capable of making people wealthy through unlawful spiritual practices.

The court heard that Okocha used social media platforms to promote claims that wealth could be obtained through supernatural means rather than legitimate work. He admitted appearing in the viral videos and owning the social media accounts used to spread the messages.

However, the court dismissed two other charges against him, including allegations of ritual killings and money-doubling schemes, ruling that prosecutors failed to present sufficient evidence or witnesses to support those claims.

Before sentencing, Okocha pleaded for mercy, telling the court he had no previous criminal record and expressing concern for his wife, twin children, and others who depended on him while he remained in custody.

His lawyer, Sir Bath Okafor Ezedinobi, said the defence team would obtain the Certified True Copy of the judgment before deciding whether to appeal.

Reacting to the verdict, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, described the ruling as a strong endorsement of the state's Homeland Security Law. He said the judgment would serve as a warning to individuals promoting illegal spiritual practices or deceiving young people with promises of wealth without work.

Mefor also clarified that the state government is not opposed to traditional religion but remains committed to taking legal action against anyone who uses spiritual claims to exploit or mislead the public. He added that seven pastors previously charged under the same law remain in custody as their cases continue.

Meanwhile, the trial of another native doctor, popularly known as Eke-Hit, has been adjourned until September 26, after both the prosecution and defence adopted their final written addresses before the court.

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