NNEWI: Vigilantes in Nnewi, Anambra State, have reportedly arrested Sir James Louis Okoye, a former Catholic Knight of St John International, over an alleged ritual cleansing exercise carried out on the streets of the town.
Okoye, who reportedly renounced Christianity during the official opening of Our Lady of Assumpta Catholic Church, Nnewi, in January, was said to have been apprehended on Saturday after he was seen dressed in red, carrying a bell and placing fresh palm fronds between his lips.
According to reports, Okoye described his activity as a spiritual cleansing exercise aimed at cleansing Nnewi land, which he alleged had been desecrated.
His arrest has attracted attention because of his previous public protest during the official consecration of the Nnewi Catholic Cathedral earlier this year.
Why Okoye Renounced Christianity
Okoye gained public attention in January when he expressed anger over what he considered the failure of the Catholic Church to adequately recognize the contributions of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah to the cathedral project. He reportedly believed that Ubah had contributed significantly to the construction of the cathedral before his death.
A video from the incident showed Okoye removing his shoes and knighthood hat as he exited the cathedral. He was heard shouting, Ifeanyi Ubah ndo, before dusting his shoes at the entrance and shouting “Akachaam,” which he appeared to use as a declaration that he was ending his association with Christianity.
Arrest Over Cleansing Exercise
Months after the incident, Okoye resurfaced on Saturday when residents reportedly saw him moving around parts of Nnewi dressed in red and carrying a bell while performing what he described as a traditional or spiritual cleansing of the community.
A short video circulating online shows Okoye sitting on the floor inside what appears to be a vigilante office while being questioned about his actions.
During the interrogation, the former Catholic knight reportedly maintained that he had committed no offence, insisting that his actions were intended to protect the town and cleanse the community.
I am doing this for the good of Nnewi, he reportedly maintained.
Mixed Reactions Online.
The incident has generated mixed reactions on social media, with some commentators questioning Okoye’s actions and others expressing concern about his state of mind.
Some social media users have described him as mentally unstable, although such claims remain unverified and should not be treated as established facts without a professional assessment.
The circumstances surrounding his arrest, including whether he will face any formal charges, were not immediately clear.
The incident has nevertheless renewed public discussion about traditional spiritual practices, religious freedom and the boundaries between individual religious expression and activities that may raise concerns within a community.
