By Tony Okafor, Awka
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has thrown down a dramatic challenge to eight pastors arrested over alleged fake miracle claims, telling them to prove their spiritual powers and regain their freedom.
The governor said the clerics were effectively keeping themselves behind bars and could secure their immediate release if they publicly demonstrated the miraculous healing powers they claim to possess.
Speaking on the controversy surrounding their arrest, Soludo challenged the pastors to move beyond church altars and perform genuine miracles on patients suffering from serious ailments in hospitals.
According to him, the state government would have no reason to continue holding them if they could heal the sick as advertised during their crusades and church services.
“You are holding yourselves in detention. We are ready to release you if you can perform the so-called arranged miracles you claim to do in your churches,” the governor said.
“Come to the hospital and lay your hands on any crippled person, blind person, or someone with spinal cord injury. If they are healed, you will be released immediately.”
The governor’s remarks have sparked fresh debate over the activities of self-acclaimed miracle workers and faith healers operating in the state.
The eight pastors were reportedly detained as part of the state government’s ongoing crackdown on alleged deceptive religious practices under its campaign against criminality and misinformation.
Soludo has repeatedly insisted that Anambra would not be a haven for individuals who exploit residents through false claims, stressing that the government remains committed to protecting citizens from fraud disguised as religion.
The governor’s challenge has since generated widespread reactions, with many residents closely watching to see whether the detained pastors will accept the offer and attempt to prove their miracle-working abilities.
