By Our Reporter
The Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion has suspended a priest, Ifunaya Maduka, as Vicar of St. Paul’s Parish, Nteje, in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, over allegations of staging fake miracles and prophecies.
Maduka was handed a six-month suspension without pay following accusations of engaging in “practices grossly unbecoming” of an ordained priest.
The action was taken under the leadership of the Bishop on the Niger, Owen Nwokolo, who alleged that the priest orchestrated “arranged and manipulated” prophecies and miracles by involving individuals allegedly paid to participate, while presenting such acts as genuine manifestations of divine power.
In a suspension letter dated April 27 and obtained in Awka, the church stated that the priest admitted to the allegations when confronted with evidence.
The letter noted that the development was particularly disturbing given that Maduka had previously been regarded as a priest of sound doctrine and good conduct.
According to the church, repeated engagements with the cleric on his ministerial practices had initially yielded assurances that his activities aligned with Christian teachings, but recent findings contradicted those claims.
The Diocese said the alleged actions raised serious moral and disciplinary concerns, including deception of the faithful, abuse of religious trust, and conduct capable of amounting to obtaining money under false pretence.
The church further stated that such behaviour undermines the integrity of the ministry and violates the ethical standards expected of clergy within the Anglican Communion.
Consequently, Maduka has been directed to hand over all church property, records, and funds in his possession and vacate the church premises within four days.
The church also disclosed that a disciplinary panel would be constituted within one month to further investigate the matter and determine additional actions in line with its regulations.
The Diocese emphasised that it does not condone practices that contradict Christian doctrine and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding discipline, moral integrity, and accountability within the clergy.
