TDThe administration of Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has intensified its campaign against fraudulent religious practices.
Governor Soludo urged residents to report suspected fake pastors and self-acclaimed spiritual leaders operating across the state.
The latest move was announced through a public awareness campaign by the Anambra State Government.
In the campaign, he called on citizens to utilize the state’s emergency call centre by dialing 5111 to report individuals allegedly engaging in deceptive religious activities.
The campaign bears the message, “Report Fake Pastors to Anambra State Government by calling 5111 now”.
It is part of the state’s broader effort to sanitize religious practice and curb activities considered harmful to public safety and social order.
The development comes amid the state government’s ongoing crackdown on criminal elements hiding under the guise of religion, traditional worship, and other forms of spiritual leadership.
The Soludo administration has repeatedly expressed concerns over the growing number of self-styled pastors and miracle workers accused of exploiting vulnerable citizens through false prophecies, fake miracles, ritual practices, and financial extortion.
Speaking on previous occasions, Governor Soludo has maintained that genuine religious worship remains protected under the law.
He, however, warned that individuals using religion as a cover for criminal activities would face the full weight of the law.
The state government’s campaign appears to be an extension of its broader initiative aimed at restoring public confidence in religious institutions while protecting residents from fraudulent practices.
Officials say the reporting mechanism will enable authorities to gather intelligence and investigate allegations against suspected offenders.
The launch of the reporting campaign has generated mixed reactions among residents and religious leaders.
While many citizens have welcomed the initiative as a necessary step to tackle fraud and exploitation, some observers have cautioned against the possibility of false accusations.
They urged authorities to ensure thorough investigations before taking action against any individual or ministry.
Religious stakeholders have also called for fairness and transparency in implementing the policy.
The stakeholders emphasized the need to distinguish between legitimate religious activities and criminal conduct disguised as faith-based operations.
The administration has assured residents that all reports received through the call centre will be treated confidentially and subjected to proper verification procedures.
Since assuming office, Governor Soludo has pursued an aggressive campaign against insecurity and criminality in Anambra State, targeting kidnappers, cult groups, ritualists, and other criminal networks.
The latest focus on fake pastors signals the government’s determination to extend that campaign into areas where authorities believe criminal activities may be masquerading as religious practice.
With the dedicated 5111 hotline now active for public complaints, the Anambra State Government is urging residents to play an active role in identifying and exposing individuals allegedly using religion as a cover for fraud, deception, and other unlawful activities.
The campaign marks another chapter in what many observers describe as Governor Soludo’s expanding effort to reform public institutions, strengthen law enforcement, and promote accountability across Anambra State.
