Anambra dismisses claims Soludo plans to arrest religious leaders

The Anambra State government has dismissed alleged plans by Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo to arrest and jail religious leaders, especially Catholic Bishops, after his re-election.

Some stories circulating on social media claimed that the governor planned to arrest some clerics and native doctors if re-elected.

However, in a statement issued by the state Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, on Tuesday, the government dismissed the reports as fabrications aimed at undermining peace in the state.

Mefor said the governor respects the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders, and urged residents to disregard the false reports.

The statement read, “The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to a fabricated story alleging that Governor Soludo plans to arrest Catholic bishops and priests after his re-election.

“We categorically state this report is false, baseless, and malicious. It is a clear example of misinformation intended to create tension and disrupt peace.”

This is the handiwork of shadow opposition relying on propaganda due to weak campaigns; they should face their failing campaigns.”

The Anambra Government assures the public, particularly the Catholic Church, of Soludo’s commitment to their rights and freedoms.

“We urge Ndị Anambra to reject this false report and always require credible evidence before sharing such inflammatory stories.”

Mefor added that the government remains committed to combating fake native doctors, fake Ndi Eze nwanyi, and fraudulent clergymen, which has given rise to ‘Oso Soludo’, and this fight must continue.

“Furthermore, the government will collaborate with the Federal Government to eliminate certificate forgers,” the statement concluded.

The Anambra governorship election is due on November 8, 2025, with Soludo seeking re-election on the All Progressives Grand Alliance platform, contesting against about 16 other candidates.