Months after publicly renouncing Catholicism over a dispute involving the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, Sir James Louis Okoye has reportedly been arrested in Nnewi.
Okoye, popularly known as Ebube Anaedo, was reportedly taken into custody by local vigilante operatives on Saturday after he was seen moving through parts of Nnewi in a red outfit, carrying a bell and holding a fresh palm frond between his lips.
He was said to have described the activity as a ritual cleansing of Nnewi land.
Why Okoye Became Controversial
Okoye first attracted widespread attention in January during the official opening and consecration of the Our Lady of Assumpta Catholic Church in Nnewi.
During the event, he protested what he considered the church’s failure to acknowledge the contribution of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, whom he believed had played a major role in the construction of the cathedral before his death.
A video from the incident showed Okoye removing his shoes and knighthood hat as he left the church premises.
He was also heard invoking Ubah’s name before dusting his shoes and declaring what was interpreted as his rejection of Christianity.
Okoye subsequently apologised to the late senator and announced that he was renouncing Catholicism over the issue.
The controversy reportedly resulted in his excommunication from the Knights of St John International.
Arrest During Cleansing Exercise
Little was publicly heard about Okoye after the January incident until Saturday, when a video surfaced showing him seated on the floor inside what appeared to be a vigilante office.
During questioning, Okoye reportedly said he was conducting a cleansing exercise because he believed Nnewi land had been desecrated.
He maintained that he had committed no wrongdoing and said his actions were intended for the benefit of the community.
Okoye also reportedly claimed that he had obtained permission from Igwe Kenneth Orizu, the traditional ruler of Nnewi, before beginning the exercise.
Questions Remain
The incident has generated mixed reactions online.
While some social media users questioned Okoye’s behaviour and speculated about his mental state, others defended him, arguing that he was exercising his religious beliefs and had not harmed anyone.
Those claims about his mental health have not been independently established.
As of the time of filing this report, it was also unclear why exactly the vigilante operatives detained Okoye, whether he had subsequently been released, or whether any formal action had been taken against him.
His current health condition could not be independently verified.
