The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has opened an investigation into a self-styled cleric, Godwin Sunday Ajuluchukwucheya, popularly known as Prophet Sunday Koboko, over allegations that he defrauded members of his ministry of ₦70.39 million.
According to the EFCC, its Enugu Zonal Directorate is probing claims that the suspect collected large sums from worshippers through promises of spiritual interventions and investment opportunities. One petitioner alleged he paid ₦6.23 million for spiritual works to bring his brother back from abroad and another ₦3.25 million to help his sister-in-law conceive after 15 years of childlessness.
The commission said the suspect also claimed to have won ₦33 billion in a lottery, urging members to contribute with assurances of dividends. Victims further alleged payments for a rice-processing business and purchases of items such as “holy ghost thunder,” “miracle stickers,” and “spiritual dragons,” which he promised would solve personal challenges.
The EFCC confirmed that the total amount allegedly collected stood at ₦70.39 million and said the suspect would be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
Reactions have been swift. On social media, one user wrote: “Religion is being weaponized against the poor. How can people still fall for this?” Another added: “This is why regulation of religious institutions is overdue.”
Policy commentators stressed the broader implications. “Cases like this show how financial fraud can hide under the cloak of spirituality. Stronger oversight is needed to protect vulnerable citizens,” said Abuja-based analyst Ngozi Eze.
Banking officials also weighed in. “Fraud of this scale undermines trust not just in religious institutions but in financial systems. Victims often end up in debt, and the ripple effects are severe,” noted a compliance officer at a tier-one bank.
EFCC officials reiterated their commitment to justice. “We will ensure that anyone who exploits faith for financial gain faces the full weight of the law,” said a spokesperson for the commission.
Many Nigerians expressed frustration that similar cases keep surfacing. “We’ve seen this story too many times. People are desperate for miracles, and fraudsters exploit that desperation,” said Lagos resident Chinedu Okeke.
