Anambra Pastor Arrested Over Alleged Sexual Abuse of 16-Year-Old Girl

The General Overseer of Jesus Is Ontop Ministry in Amichi, Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Evangelist Dozie Ezani, has been taken into custody by security operatives over allegations involving the abuse of a 16-year-old girl.

Ezani was reportedly arrested at his poultry farm in Igboukwu, Aguata LGA, by operatives of the Anambra State Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA) following intelligence reports and surveillance of his activities.

According to SASA spokesperson, Karen James, the victim was brought in for questioning at the agency’s headquarters in Onitsha, where she detailed repeated incidents that allegedly took place at the suspect’s residence, church premises in Amichi, and his farm in Igboukwu.

James explained that the case was initially reported by a local security operative in Igboukwu who had observed unusual interactions between the suspect and the teenager. Acting on the information, SASA operatives carried out an operation at the church in Igboukwu earlier in the week, leading to Ezani’s arrest. He was subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Awka for further investigation.

During interrogation, the victim said she had been living in Lagos before her aunt brought her back to Anambra State and handed her over to the pastor for what was described as “special deliverance.” She alleged that the abuse began shortly after her arrival in November 2025.

The teenager, who identified herself as Precious Okafor, said she experienced repeated incidents at different locations linked to the suspect. She also raised concerns about her health after being given certain substances, noting uncertainty about her condition and calling for medical support from the government and relevant organisations.

SASA disclosed that arrangements are being made for a medical examination to determine her health status, while efforts are ongoing to locate the aunt who is currently at large.

In a recorded interrogation, Ezani admitted to having relations with the girl but claimed it was beyond his control, attributing it to spiritual influence. He also stated that the substances given to her were meant to address a suspected pregnancy and offered to sponsor her medical care.

The Head of SASA, Monday Nwokoye, confirmed that the suspect remains in CID custody as investigations continue. He urged members of the public to report suspicious activities, stressing that such offences will be thoroughly prosecuted.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, Tochukwu Ikenga, said he had yet to receive full details of the case but would provide an update after making necessary enquiries.

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