The Anambra State Government has sealed off a popular church, “River Bethsaida”, in Amafor village, Nkpor, over alleged involvement in the controversial “Oke-ite” traditional practice. The church, run by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha, also known as “Onye Eze Jesus”, was shut down by operatives of the state security outfit, “Agunechemba”, on Sunday.
The crackdown marked the third high-profile shutdown of “quick riches” spiritualists in Anambra, following the arrest of popular native doctors and individuals engaged in “Oke-ite” practices. The state authorities have identified “Oke Ite” as a fraudulent scheme used by native doctors to deceive unsuspecting victims, involving a concoction made from human parts, animals, and herbs mixed in a mud pot for money rituals.
Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to the Anambra State governor on Community Security, announced the closure of the church, stating that the action was taken in response to public complaints and a video where the pastor allegedly admitted to practicing “Oke Ite” and other dubious rituals.
The state government will conduct forensic tests on liquid substances found at the ministry and analyze samples from River Bethsaida to determine potential health hazards associated with the practice. The Anambra State government remains committed to curbing fraudulent religious and ritualistic practices in the state.