An Anambra State-based preacher, Favour Ezani, has been arrested for allegedly raping and impregnating a 16-year-old girl (names withheld) at his residence in Amichi, Nnewi South Local Government Area.
The suspect, the General Overseer of a Pentecostal church, was apprehended by the Special Anti-Touting Squad (SASA), the government’s security outfit.
In a video circulating online, the cleric reportedly admitted to the act, saying he administered a mixture of bitter leaf and other herbs to terminate the pregnancy in an attempt to avoid public exposure.
Reports said he appealed to security operatives for leniency, promising to cover the victim’s medical expenses.
Speaking with journalists at the SASA headquarters in Onitsha, the spokesperson, Karen James, said the case was reported by a security operative from Igboukwu, a neighbouring community.
According to her, the victim had been handed over to the cleric by her aunt for what was described as a special deliverance session, before the incident occurred.
She explained that the aunt became suspicious after discovering the girl was pregnant, and upon questioning, the victim identified the cleric as responsible. The suspect is currently in police custody.
Narrating her experience, the teenager said the abuse began in November 2025, shortly after she arrived at the cleric’s residence for the programme arranged by her aunt.
She alleged that the cleric repeatedly assaulted her and threatened her against speaking out.
The victim also claimed she was given herbal substances to terminate the pregnancy, which has led to ongoing health complications.
She appealed to the Anambra State Government, non-governmental organisations, and well-meaning individuals for assistance to access proper medical care.