Anambra Govt confirms arrest of pastor accused of taking 75 married women as wives
Anambra State Government Confirms Arrest of Clergyman Accused of Abducting Married Women
Onitsha, Nigeria — The Anambra State government has confirmed the arrest of Pastor Harrison Charles, the founder of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha. He is accused of abducting up to 75 married women from their husbands.
Many of Pastor Charles’ alleged victims, primarily members of his congregation, have accused him of coercing them into swapping wives and taking other church members’ spouses for himself.
This arrest follows a broader campaign by the Anambra State government against fraudulent pastors, which has resulted in the arraignment of eight individuals in court for similar offenses. In light of this crackdown, several victims have come forward to share their experiences with such clerics.
Dr. Ejimofor Opara, Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State on Media, confirmed the arrest via a Facebook post. He stated that Pastor Charles has been transferred to the police for further investigation. A joint inquiry between the Anambra State Police Command and the state government is currently underway.
Opara urged the public to report any information relating to the pastor’s activities to the state authorities. He noted that Pastor Charles was apprehended following the circulation of a video that included various allegations against him.
During the arrest, authorities discovered eleven infants at Charles’ residence. He claims to be the father of these children, asserting they are from eleven wives. However, he stated he does not know the exact number of wives or children he has.
As investigations proceed, Mr. Ken Emeakayi, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, has encouraged anyone with relevant information to contact the state government at 08034182108.
