Court sentences fake native doctor to 6 years in prison, N20m fine in Anambra
Awka High Court Sentences Fake Native Doctor to Six Years in Prison
Awka, Nigeria — An Awka High Court has sentenced Onyebuchi Okocha, also known as Onyeze Jesus, to six years in prison and imposed a fine of 20 million Naira for his role as a fraudulent native doctor. Okocha has been in detention for 18 months, charged under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law of 2025 in connection with alleged money ritual activities.
During the court proceedings, Justice Jude Obiora noted that Okocha admitted to appearing in viral videos and controlling social media accounts that claimed he had the ability to make individuals wealthy. However, the judge ruled that the prosecution failed to provide evidence supporting allegations of ritual murder or money doubling, as no witnesses testified to benefiting from Okocha’s practices.
In a plea for leniency, Okocha emotionally addressed the court, expressing his distress over the situation. “My Lord, please tamper justice with mercy,” he said, indicating that this was his first offense and his initial encounter with the legal system. He also spoke of the hardships faced by his family during his incarceration, stating that he had lost contact with his wife and twin children, who depend on him financially. Okocha further lamented the deaths of three widows who relied on his support.
In a separate development, seven suspected fake pastors, arrested last month in Anambra, have been ordered to remain in custody as their cases await court adjudication. Another individual, known as Eke-Hit, will have his case heard on September 26, following the submission of written addresses by both the defense and prosecution.
