The Anambra State High Court in Awka has sentenced popular native doctor Onyebuchi Okocha, widely known as Onyeze Jesus, to six years in prison and a ₦20 million fine under the Anambra Homeland Security Law.
Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Jude Obiora convicted Okocha on one of three charges filed against him following his arrest during a security crackdown in February 2025.
The court found him guilty of misleading the public by claiming to possess supernatural powers capable of making people wealthy through unlawful spiritual practices.
He was discharged on two other counts relating to ritual killings and money-doubling schemes due to insufficient evidence.
Justice Obiora ruled that Okocha admitted to appearing in viral videos promoting wealth through supernatural means and confirmed ownership of the social media accounts used to spread the claims.
“Individuals who claim supernatural powers capable of making people wealthy through prohibited practices are liable to imprisonment and financial penalties,” the judge stated.
Before sentencing, Okocha pleaded for leniency, saying he had been in custody since February 2025 and lamenting the hardship faced by his family.
His lawyer, Sir Bath Okafor Ezedinobi, said the defence would review the judgment before deciding on an appeal.
Reacting, Anambra Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, described the ruling as a strong affirmation of the Homeland Security Law, stressing that it would serve as a deterrent to others promoting harmful practices.
He clarified that the government was not against traditional religion but would continue to clamp down on individuals using spiritual claims to deceive the public.
Meanwhile, the case of another native doctor, Eke-Hit, has been adjourned until September 26, while seven pastors arraigned under the same law remain in custody pending trial.
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