There was mild drama at the Anambra State High Court on Tuesday, as suspected members of Dayspring Assembly, Awada-Obosi, obstructed journalists during the appearance of its General Overseer, Pastor Harrison Anazodo. The church members shielded their pastor from cameras as he made his way into the courtroom.
Pastor Anazodo is facing a seven-count charge bordering on child trafficking, murder, abduction and propagation of accumulation of wealth through supernatural means, among others, before Justice Jude Obiora.
Pastor Anazodo who is also accused of unlawful separation and isolation of individuals from their families and keeping them in his residence, arrived the court premises with supporters who allegedly obstructed photo-journalists from performing their duties.
The altercation led to the damage of two smartphones belonging to journalists covering the proceedings.
During court proceedings, the presiding judge, Justice Jude Obiora, while ruling on a motion for bail application by the defendant, denied the application on the grounds of doctored medical reports presented before the court, the defendant being a threat to witnesses, and having no known philanthropic recognition in society.
The persecuting counsel Chineze Onoye Ekwerekwu, after the proceeding, highlighted the charges brought before the court and denial of bail.
Attorney-General of Anambra State, Professor Tobechukwu Nweke, condemned the attack on journalists and revealed the court’s decision on damages for the destroyed phones.
Counsel to the defendant declined to speak to journalists as the court adjourned sitting till 16th October, 2026.
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(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
