The Anambra State Government, led by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has extended its campaign against fake native doctors to include fake pastors and other individuals posing as genuine religious leaders while allegedly engaging in criminal activities.
In a statement, the Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr. Law Mefor, said the move is part of the government’s efforts to combat criminality and sanitize both traditional worship and religious practices in the state, with the aim of restoring law, order, and public confidence.
According to the statement, residents are encouraged to provide credible information about pastors, churches, or self-acclaimed men of God involved in criminal acts such as fraud, extortion, deception, or any activity that threatens lives, peace, and security in communities.
Anambra government assured residents that all information received would be treated with strict confidentiality.
Mefor noted that contrary to criticisms from some quarters, the campaign is not aimed at suppressing genuine religious or traditional practices but rather at protecting legitimate worshippers and practitioners from individuals who exploit religion and culture for criminal purposes.
The Commissioner called on residents to support the initiative by reporting suspicious activities, stressing that collective action is necessary to rid the state of criminals hiding under the guise of religion, culture, and tradition.
Residents with useful information can contact the designated hotlines: +2348034182108 or 5111.
