The Anambra State Government has confirmed the arrest of Pastor Harrison Charles, founder of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha, over allegations that he took dozens of married women from their husbands and made them his wives.
The pastor has been at the centre of widespread allegations circulating on social media, with videos containing confessions and accusations from alleged victims and their relatives. Some of the claims allege that he encouraged wife-swapping among members of his church and personally took some married women as wives.
The development comes amid the state government’s ongoing crackdown on suspected fake pastors. Following the recent arraignment of eight clerics in court, more individuals have reportedly come forward with accounts of alleged exploitation by religious leaders.
There had been conflicting reports regarding Pastor Charles’ arrest, with some claiming he had not been detained. However, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dr. Ejimofor Opara, confirmed in a Facebook post that the cleric had been arrested.
According to Opara, the suspect has been handed over to the police, while a joint investigation involving the Anambra State Government and the police is underway. He also urged members of the public with relevant information to contact the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Mr. Ken Emeakayi.
Opara stated: “Pastor Harrison Charles, owner of Day Spring Assembly in Awada, Onitsha, was arrested by operatives of Agunechemba following a viral video containing several allegations against him.
“He is currently being investigated by the police, in collaboration with the Anambra State Government.
“During his arrest, about eleven babies were found in his home. He claims to be the father of these eleven babies, stating they are from eleven of his wives.
“He also claims he does not know the number of wives he has married or the total number of children he has.
“While investigations continue, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, Mr. Ken Emeakayi, has urged anyone with additional information to report it to the State Government via 08034182108.”
Authorities say investigations are ongoing and have encouraged anyone with useful information to come forward.
