Anambra Pastor Arrested Over Alleged Conversion of 75 Married Women as Wives

The Anambra State Government has confirmed the arrest of Pastor Harrison Charles, founder of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha, over allegations that he took several married women as wives.

Daily Post, Arise News, Anambra Daily and Sundiata Post reported that the pastor was arrested by Agunechemba operatives after viral videos made a series of allegations against him.

Dr. Ejimofor Opara, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Media, was quoted as saying Charles is being investigated by the police in collaboration with the state government.

The allegations include claims that the pastor took up to 75 married women, mostly said to be church members, and made them his wives. Reports also alleged wife-swapping practices among some church members.

Authorities said about 11 babies were found in the pastor’s home during the arrest. Opara was quoted as saying Charles claimed the babies were his children from 11 wives and allegedly said he did not know the total number of wives or children he had.

The pastor was handed over to the Anambra State Police Command for investigation. Officials said members of the public with useful information could assist investigators as the state continues its crackdown on alleged fake religious operators.

The allegations remain under investigation, and the pastor had not been reported as convicted of any offence in the initial reports.

The case has drawn public attention because it involves claims about family separation, religious authority and possible abuse of vulnerable followers, all of which investigators will need to test carefully before any charges are resolved.

Sources: Daily Post; Arise News; Anambra Daily; Sundiata Post