The Enugu State Government has demolished a facility in Onicha-Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, which was allegedly operating as a criminal hideout under the false pretense of being a religious worship centre.
The compound, operated by a self-styled prophet named Chinedu Ezedike, was exposed following investigations that linked it to ritual practices, kidnappings, and other organized crimes. Authorities said the so-called religious facility had no genuine spiritual purpose and served as a cover for illegal activities that fueled insecurity in the region.
The demolition is part of an ongoing campaign by the state government to rid Enugu of criminal elements masquerading as spiritual figures. This includes fake pastors, native doctors, and spiritualists who exploit religious or traditional platforms to perpetrate crime.
Residents of the area welcomed the government’s action, calling it a necessary move to safeguard lives and restore community safety. One local resident, speaking anonymously, praised the demolition as “a strong message that criminality, no matter how cleverly disguised, will not be tolerated in Enugu State.”
