Anambra Govt Shuts Down Church Linked to Controversial ‘Oke-ite’ Rituals, Cracking Down on Fraudulent Practices
The Anambra State Government has sealed the “Children of the Light Anointing Ministry,” a church led by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha, also known as “Onye Eze Jesus,” after it was linked to fraudulent rituals. Located in Amafor village, Nkpor, the church was raided on Sunday, February 16, by the state’s security team, Agunechemba, due to allegations of involvement in the controversial “Oke-ite” traditional ritual.
The “Oke-ite” practice is a ritual involving a mix of human and animal parts, along with herbs, used for money-making purposes. The raid uncovered various substances and materials on the church premises, raising suspicions about the church’s activities.
The Anambra government confirmed the closure of the church through an official statement, marking the third such crackdown on religious leaders promoting “quick wealth” schemes. Previously, native doctors and spiritualists practicing “Oke-ite” were arrested, and their shrines were shut down.
The controversial practice, often targeting vulnerable individuals seeking wealth, has been condemned by the state as fraudulent and deceptive. Ken Emeakayi, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, led the operation and stated the government acted in response to public outcry and a video in which Pastor Okocha reportedly admitted to using “Oke-ite” rituals.
