Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Diocese on the Niger, has suspended a priest, Ifunanya Maduka, over allegations of engaging in staged prophecy, popularly known as “arranged” prophecies. In a letter dated 27 April 2026, the Bishop on the Niger, the Rt Rev’d Owen C. Nwokolo, announced Maduka’s suspension as Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Nteje, in Anambra State, for a period of twelve months. The bishop also barred the cleric from officiating any clerical duties during the suspension and directed him to recant the practice in writing.
According to the letter, the decision followed an investigation triggered by a petition from members of St. Paul’s Church, who had observed several fake prophecies orchestrated by the priest. The bishop stated that the suspension would take effect from 1 May 2026 and that the priest is expected to hand over all church property in his possession to the church’s Diocesan Secretary, the Ven Stephen K. Okpalannaechi. The letter also warned that any violation of the terms of the suspension would attract severe sanctions.
The congregation had reported that the priest staged prophecies to manipulate members and attract fame. The diocese also advised the suspended vicar to pray for God’s mercy and to desist from such practices, which tarnish the image of the church and mislead the faithful. The bishop further directed the church’s lay leadership to ensure the suspension is enforced without delay.
This is not the first time the Diocese on the Niger has taken disciplinary action against clergy over manufactured prophecies. In recent years, several Nigerian churches across denominations have struggled with the phenomenon of “prophetic entertainment,” where some ministers fabricate divine messages for notoriety or financial gain. The Anglican Communion has consistently maintained that true prophecy must align with scriptural standards and edify the church, not serve as a tool for self‑promotion.
Efforts to reach Rev. Maduka for comment were unsuccessful as of press time. The bishop’s letter did not specify whether any further ecclesiastical trial or canonical process would follow the suspension. However, the twelve-month duration and the requirement to recant in writing suggest that the diocese considers the matter serious enough to warrant a long period of reflection and discipline, with the possibility of full restoration contingent on the priest’s compliance.
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