Cleric in Anambra Faces Suspension for Staging ‘Miracles,’ False Prophecies

Cleric in Anambra Faces Suspension for Staging ‘Miracles,’ False Prophecies

The Diocese of the Niger, Anglican Communion, has suspended a priest, Reverend Ifunanya Maduka of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Nteje in Anambra State, over allegations of staging fake miracles and delivering false prophecies.

The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was conveyed in an official letter dated April 27, 2026, and signed by the Bishop on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo. According to the Church authorities, the cleric will serve a six-month suspension without pay following findings of conduct deemed grossly unbecoming of an ordained minister.

In the letter, the Diocese accused Rev. Maduka of orchestrating deceptive spiritual acts, including arranging and manipulating prophetic sessions and miracles with the involvement of individuals allegedly known to him and financially induced to participate. These acts were reportedly presented to congregants as genuine manifestations of divine power.

Church authorities further disclosed that when confronted with evidence of the alleged misconduct, the priest admitted to his involvement in the activities described as “unholy practices.”

The Diocese expressed strong disapproval of the actions, stating that they contradict the sacred duties and ethical standards expected of clergy within the Anglican Communion. It noted that such behavior raises serious ecclesiastical, moral, and disciplinary concerns, including deception of worshippers, abuse of the name of God, and actions that could be interpreted as obtaining money under false pretence.

“Such actions are wholly inconsistent with the calling, character, and sacred responsibilities of an ordained minister of the Gospel,” the statement read.

The Church also lamented the broader impact of the incident, stating that the alleged actions have brought dishonour to the Christian faith, undermined the integrity of the Diocese, and exposed the Church to public ridicule.

As part of the disciplinary measures, Rev. Maduka has been directed to hand over all church property, including records, documents, and keys, to the People’s Warden of the parish. He has also been instructed to vacate the church premises within four days of receiving the suspension notice.

The Diocese confirmed that a disciplinary panel will be set up to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and recommend further actions in line with Church regulations.

The development has sparked conversations within the Christian community about accountability, integrity, and the need to uphold ethical standards in religious leadership.