Anambra State Government has confirmed the arrest of the Pastor-in-Charge of Day Spring Assembly, Awada, Onitsha, Pastor Harrison Charles Anazodo, over allegations bordering on marital misconduct and other related offences.
The arrest was carried out on Friday by operatives of Agunechemba following the circulation of viral videos in which several allegations were made against the cleric.
The allegations include claims that the pastor allegedly interfered in marriages, took married women from their husbands and encouraged wife-swapping among some members of his church.
In one of the videos, a woman alleged that the cleric was involved in various forms of misconduct, including marrying multiple women, taking other men’s wives, marrying underage girls and using charms to deceive members.
The woman called on the state government to investigate the activities of the church.
Confirming the arrest, the Special Adviser on Media to Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, Dr Ejimofor Opara, said the suspect was currently under investigation by the police in collaboration with the state government.
According to Opara, 11 babies were found in the pastor’s custody during the arrest operation.
He said the cleric claimed to be the biological father of the children, adding that the babies were from 11 of his wives.
“Pastor Harrison Charles, owner of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha, was arrested by operatives of Agunechemba following a viral video containing several allegations against him.
“He is currently being investigated by the police in collaboration with the Anambra State Government.
“During his arrest, about 11 babies were found in his home. He claims to be the father of these 11 babies, stating that they are from 11 of his wives.
“He also claims he does not know the number of wives he has married or the total number of children he has,” Opara said.
He added that investigations were ongoing to determine the veracity of the allegations and establish the circumstances surrounding the children found in the pastor’s residence.
Opara urged members of the public with useful information regarding the matter to cooperate with authorities.
According to him, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Mr Ken Emeakayi, has appealed to individuals with relevant information or testimonies to come forward to assist investigators.
The state government reiterated its commitment to protecting residents and ensuring that all allegations are thoroughly investigated in accordance with the law.
The police have yet to release further details on the case as investigations continue.
