By Crime Editor
The Police in Ebonyi State have arrested the General Overseer of Champion the Truth Cathedral, Bishop Ndibueze Okorie Onyagoziri, over allegations of serial sexual exploitation of female members, including a 22-year-old sickle cell patient, whom he allegedly coerced into a week-long sexual relationship under the guise of “divine healing.”
The cleric, according to the victim, had claimed that seven days of sex with him would miraculously change her genotype from SS to AA.
Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the arrest in Abakaliki.
“Yes, the Bishop is with us here at the police headquarters, Abakaliki. He was arrested on Wednesday, October 1, and brought to the command. The matter is under investigation,” Ukandu stated.
In a viral video that has stirred outrage on social media, the young woman narrated how her family, in a bid to seek healing for her, allowed her to live in the church.
She alleged that Bishop Onyagoziri took advantage of her vulnerability, insisting that only a “divine sexual covenant” with him could cure her condition.
Driven by desperation after losing three siblings to the same illness, she reluctantly agreed.
“But instead of healing, my health became worse.
“When my sister insisted I should return home, the Bishop threatened to leak our pictures if I left," she said.
According to her, the threats were later carried out when her nude photos surfaced online, allegedly posted by the cleric, sparking shock and condemnation.
The development has drawn strong reactions across Ebonyi, with rights activists calling for justice and warning against the rising trend of religious leaders preying on vulnerable women.
Community members described the allegations as “disgraceful and shameful,” urging the police not to compromise the investigation.
Some Christian leaders in the state also demanded that the church distance itself from individuals who abuse their spiritual authority.
The Ebonyi Police Command has promised a thorough probe into the allegations.
DSP Ukandu stressed that justice would be served, adding that the suspect remains in custody.
Meanwhile, the victim and her family are calling for protection, alleging continuous threats from the Bishop’s loyalists.
