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The Anglican Church in Anambra State has suspended a priest, Ifunaya Maduka, from his position as Vicar of Saint Paul’s Parish in Nteje over allegations of performing fake miracles, the diocese announced.
The suspension letter, dated April 27 and signed by Bishop Owen Nwokolo of the Diocese of the Niger, said Maduka was accused of engaging in arranged and manipulated prophecies.
“It has come to our attention, with deep sadness and grave concern, that you have been involved in practices grossly unbecoming of an ordained Priest of the Anglican Church,” the letter read.
“Specifically, credible and verifiable reports have been brought before us alleging that you engaged in arranged and manipulated prophecies by involving persons whom you induced or paid for that purpose, while presenting such acts as genuine prophetic manifestations from God.”
The church said Maduka admitted to engaging in the “unholy practice” when confronted over the allegations.
“From the evidence available to us, your conduct raises grave ecclesiastical, moral, and disciplinary concerns, including involvement in false prophecy, abuse of the name of God, deception of the faithful and the general public, and conduct capable of amounting to obtaining money under false pretence,” the church stated.
“Such actions are wholly inconsistent with the calling, character, and sacred responsibilities of an ordained minister of the gospel.”
The church said Maduka committed the alleged offences despite knowing that the diocese does not condone such conduct.
“Consequently, after serious thought, prayerful consideration, and in the interest of discipline, order, and the integrity of the ministry, we hereby suspend you from your office as Vicar of St Paul’s Anglican Church, Nteje, for a period of six months, without pay, with immediate effect,” the letter said.
The church directed Maduka to hand over all church properties, records, documents, keys, and funds to the People’s Warden and vacate the premises within four days.
“You are hereby directed to hand over all church properties, records, documents, keys, funds, and any other items belonging to the Parish or Diocese in your possession to the People’s Warden,” the church said, asking the cleric to vacate its premises within four days.
“Furthermore, within the next one month, a disciplinary panel shall be constituted to investigate the matter more fully and determine any further action that may be necessary in accordance with the discipline and regulations of the church.”
