The Enugu State High Court, sitting in Independence Layout and presided over by Justice H. O. Eya, has convicted and sentenced one Godwin Sunday Ajuluchukwucheya, popularly known as Prophet Sunday Koboko, for defrauding members of his congregation to the tune of ₦136,436,000.
The conviction followed prosecution by the Enugu Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Ajuluchukwucheya was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.
According to the charge sheet, between 2023 and February 2025, the self-styled prophet deceived unsuspecting worshippers into believing that he had won ₦30 billion in the Baba Ijebu lottery.
He further claimed that those who invested in his fraudulent scheme would receive dividends proportionate to their contributions.
This false representation enabled him to swindle his followers of over ₦136 million.
Ajuluchukwucheya Pleads Guilty
The offences contravened Section 1 (1)(a) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006, and are punishable under Section 1 (3) of the same Act.
When the charges were read, Ajuluchukwucheya pleaded guilty.
Consequently, EFCC counsel, Assistant Commander Rotimi Ajobiewe, urged the court to convict and sentence him in line with his plea.
Justice Eya sentenced the convict to one year imprisonment, with an option of a ₦500,000 fine.
In addition, the court ordered the forfeiture of his landed property, registered under Customary Certificate of Occupancy dated 25th July 1989, to the Federal Government.
The property is to be sold, with proceeds applied toward restitution for victims of his fraudulent activities.
The Genesis of Ajuluchukwucheya’s Criminal Enterprise
The case originated from petitions filed by defrauded individuals.
One petitioner, Mrs. Ngene Nkiruka Jane, alleged that the convict deceived her into believing he could resurrect her late husband.
She was persuaded to pay ₦6.7 million for the supposed resurrection and investment scheme.
Another victim, Mr. Okey Uwakwe, recounted how Ajuluchukwucheya claimed he could spiritually compel his brother, who had been abroad since 1997, to return home.
He was defrauded of ₦6.2 million under this guise.
Investigations revealed that Ajuluchukwucheya’s fraudulent practices extended beyond these individual cases.
Numerous members of his ministry reported being duped through the sale of so-called spiritual products marketed as prosperity aids.
These included items branded as:
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“miracle sticker,”
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“spiritual dragon,” and,
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“holy ghost thunder.”
Future Outlook
The conviction underscores the EFCC’s commitment to protecting citizens from fraudulent schemes disguised under religious or spiritual pretences.
It also serves as a warning to individuals who exploit faith and trust for personal enrichment.
By securing both imprisonment and forfeiture orders, the court reinforced the principle that fraudsters will not only face criminal sanctions but also be compelled to make restitution to their victims.
This case highlights the importance of vigilance among worshippers and the broader public.
It reminds citizens to critically evaluate claims of supernatural powers or investment opportunities presented under religious cover.
It also demonstrates the judiciary’s resolve to uphold justice and deter fraudulent exploitation in society.
