The Anambra State Government has sealed a popular church, River Bethsaida, operated by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha, also known as Onye Eze Jesus, over allegations of involvement in the controversial “Oke Ite” ritual practice.
The enforcement, carried out on Sunday by the state security outfit Agunechemba, took place at the church premises in Amafor village, Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area.
During the operation, security operatives reportedly discovered several suspicious items, including containers and other substances.
Confirming the development, Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, stated that the closure was in response to widespread public concerns and a video allegedly showing the pastor admitting to engaging in Oke Ite and other questionable rituals.
“The state government will conduct forensic tests on liquid substances found at the ministry,” Emeakayi said. “While we respect religious freedom, we will not tolerate practices that promote fraudulent ‘get-rich-quick’ schemes.”
Authorities explained that Oke Ite is a ritualistic concoction allegedly made from human body parts, animals, and herbs, often mixed in a mud pot for money rituals.
According to officials, native doctors and spiritualists use it to deceive unsuspecting individuals with promises of instant wealth.
Emeakayi further disclosed that forensic experts would also analyze water samples from River Bethsaida, where the pastor, also known as Aka na Asa Uchu, reportedly conducts ritual baths.
“The investigation aims to determine any potential health hazards associated with this practice,” he added.
“The Anambra State government is committed to eliminating fraudulent religious and ritualistic activities that exploit vulnerable citizens.”
This crackdown marks the third major operation against “quick riches” spiritualists in Anambra State, following previous raids that led to the arrest of native doctors and the sealing of several shrines linked to similar activities.
