- Abiri noted that exorcism, involving spiritual cleansing and the expulsion of evil spirits and witchcraft, had become a significant issue
The Ebonyi State House of Assembly (EBHA) has passed a motion banning exorcism, often disguised as a religious activity, in Izzi land, Ebonyi.
The motion, presented by Mr. Godwin Abiri of Izzi West State Constituency, addresses rising concerns about exorcism in the area.
Abiri noted that exorcism, involving spiritual cleansing and the expulsion of evil spirits and witchcraft, had become a significant issue, prompting the need for legislative action.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the House’s adoption of the motion aims to curb the practice and ensure public safety.
Presenting the motion, Abiri said “Mr Speaker, colleagues, permit me to bring to the knowledge of this honourable house, the highly disturbing incidence of threats to lives, destruction of property, looting and causing breakdown of law and order in my constituency.
“The crisis at Agharaoza village, Ndi-Ebo Ezzainyimagu, in Izzi Local Government, allegedly occasioned by the prophecy/activities of the so called man of God, Prophet Ubadimma (real name not known).
“The youths of Agharaoza village, according to a reliable source, allegedly hired one prophet Ubadimma and his cohorts recently for a spiritual cleansing to fish out witches and wizards in their village.
“He came and prophesied that one Chief John Ekpono and others tied the destinies of the youths of the village, which was the reason nobody is progressing while Ekpono and his children are the only rich people in the village.
“This prophesy ignited unimaginable tension, as youths of the village went on rampage, destroying Ekpono’s houses, that of his three wives, looted all his property including cash.”
Abiri said that roads leading to the village were blocked, and ditches dug, to prevent movement of people, in and out of the village.
The lawmaker however, said that the timely intervention of the Chairman of Izzi Local Government Area, Mr Steve Nwankpa, saved the situation, as Ekpono and all his family members were rescued.
He disclosed that the entire members of the family were now taking refuge at Abakaliki and youths suspected to be involved in the crisis arrested.
“Ubadimma and his accomplis fled to unknown destination,” Abiri said.
Abiri said that fake prophets had taken the advantage of the gullibility of people to desecrate the land, thereby jeopardising the developmental strides of Gov. Francis Nwifuru at the rural communities.
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