The Church of Nigeria has suspended a priest in Anambra State after accusing him of staging fake miracles and prophecies.
The cleric, Ifunaya Maduka, who serves as vicar of St. Paul’s Parish in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area, has been barred from his duties for six months without pay.
Church authorities say the decision followed credible reports that Maduka arranged so-called miracles and prophetic acts by using people he knew—sometimes paying them—to act as participants, while presenting the scenes as genuine spiritual experiences.
The suspension was approved by Owen Nwokolo, who leads the Diocese on the Niger. In a formal letter dated April 27, the bishop said the priest admitted to the allegations when confronted with evidence.
According to the church, the actions amount to serious misconduct, including deception, misuse of religious authority, and behavior that falls far below the standards expected of a clergy member.
The letter also noted that the priest had previously defended his ministry as being in line with Christian teachings, a claim the church now says was misleading in light of the findings.
As part of the disciplinary measures, Maduka has been instructed to hand over all church property and vacate the parish premises within four days.
A panel is expected to be set up within a month to investigate the case further and decide if additional sanctions are necessary.
Church leaders say the move is aimed at protecting the integrity of the ministry and maintaining public trust.
