TD Anambra State High Court has denied a bail application filed on health grounds by Harrison Anazodo, an Onitsha-based spiritualist facing trial over alleged violations of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025.
Anazodo, who has been described as a pastor and is alleged to have married more than 50 women, appeared before the court on Tuesday for continuation of his trial.
His counsel, W. Abonye, Esq., had applied for his release on bail on health grounds.
However, the presiding judge, Justice Jude Obiora, reportedly declined the application, holding that the defendant did not have a life-threatening medical condition warranting bail on that basis.
Prosecution Ready to Proceed
The prosecution, led by the Chief State Counsel, Chineze Ononye-Ekwerekwu, Esq., opposed the bail application with a 20-paragraph counter-affidavit supported by two exhibits.
The prosecution also told the court that the Anambra State Government was ready to proceed with the case and had witnesses lined up to testify.
Following the proceedings, the court adjourned the matter until October 16, 2026, for further hearing.
Seven-Count Charge
Anazodo is facing a seven-count charge relating to alleged violations of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025.
His arrest followed allegations that he was involved in human trafficking, the alleged abduction of women for marriage and other related activities.
According to the account presented by the Anambra State Government, authorities found at least 11 babies at his residence when he was arrested.
It was also alleged that during interrogation, Anazodo said he did not know the exact number of women he had married.
The allegations remain subject to determination by the court.
Chaos at Court Premises
The case had earlier generated controversy after some members of Anazodo’s congregation reportedly invaded the premises of the Anambra State High Court during his appearance.
The group was accused of attempting to prevent journalists from covering the defendant’s arrival at the court.
It resulted in a confrontation in which at least two smartphones and cameras were reportedly damaged.
Some journalists were also allegedly manhandled.
Following the incident, Anambra State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, reportedly appeared at the court and brought the matter to the attention of Justice Obiora.
Counsel to the defendant subsequently tendered an unreserved apology and assured the court that a similar incident would not occur again.
The judge thereafter directed that the damaged phones and cameras be replaced.
Anambra Government’s Law-and-Order Agenda
The prosecution of Anazodo is being presented by the Anambra State Government as part of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s broader efforts to strengthen law and order and address activities considered a threat to public safety.
The state government has linked the case to its stated objective of building a safer, more orderly and prosperous Anambra.
However, the allegations against Anazodo have not been finally determined.
He remains entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by the court.
The case resumes on October 16, 2026.
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