Soludo Dares Detained Pastors: Heal the Sick in Public, Win Your Freedom

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has issued a dramatic challenge to eight pastors detained over alleged fake miracle claims, declaring that they can secure their immediate freedom if they publicly demonstrate the healing powers they profess to possess.

The governor said the clerics were effectively keeping themselves in detention and could walk free if they proved the authenticity of the miracles they advertise during church services and crusades.

Speaking on the controversy surrounding their arrest, Soludo challenged the pastors to move beyond the pulpit and perform verifiable healings on patients suffering from severe medical conditions in hospitals across the state.

According to the governor, the state government would have no justification for continuing their detention if they could genuinely heal the sick as claimed. “You are holding yourselves in detention. We are ready to release you if you can perform the so-called arranged miracles you claim to do in your churches,” Soludo said. “Come to the hospital and lay your hands on any crippled person, blind person, or someone with spinal cord injury. If they are healed, you will be released immediately.”

The governor’s remarks have reignited debate over the activities of self-styled miracle workers and faith healers, with many questioning the credibility of miracle claims frequently promoted by some religious leaders.

The eight pastors were reportedly arrested as part of the Anambra State Government’s ongoing crackdown on alleged deceptive religious practices, a campaign aimed at curbing criminality, misinformation, and the exploitation of vulnerable residents.

Soludo has repeatedly maintained that Anambra will not serve as a sanctuary for individuals who enrich themselves through false claims disguised as religious activities. He stressed that his administration remains committed to protecting citizens from fraud and manipulation under any guise.

The governor’s challenge has since sparked widespread reactions across the state and beyond, with many Nigerians closely watching to see whether any of the detained pastors will accept the offer and attempt to publicly prove their alleged miracle-working abilities.