The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has suspended the Vicar of St. Paul’s Parish, Nteje, in Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Ifunaya Maduka, over allegations of staging false prophecies and miracles.

Maduka was handed a six-month suspension without pay following what the church described as conduct unbecoming of an ordained priest.

A vicar is a resident priest cared for by the church and usually regarded as the representative of the bishop.

In a suspension letter dated April 27, 2026, the Bishop of the Diocese on the Niger, Owen Nwokolo, accused the cleric of orchestrating “arranged and manipulated” prophecies by allegedly using individuals he knew and paid, while presenting such acts as genuine manifestations of divine power.

According to the bishop, the priest admitted involvement in the practice when confronted with evidence.

The letter stated that the allegations raised serious ecclesiastical and moral concerns, including false prophecy, deception of the faithful, abuse of the name of God, and conduct that could amount to obtaining money under false pretence.

The diocese said such actions were inconsistent with the doctrine, discipline, and ethical standards of the Anglican Church, adding that they had brought disrepute to the church and undermined public trust.

As part of the disciplinary measures, Maduka has been directed to hand over all church property, records, funds, and official materials in his possession to the People’s Warden, and to vacate the parish premises within four days.

The church further disclosed that a disciplinary panel would be constituted within one month to conduct a comprehensive investigation and determine any additional sanctions in line with church regulations.

The diocese said the decision was taken after careful consideration and in the interest of maintaining discipline, integrity, and accountability within the ministry. (Adapted from a Vanguard report)

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