By Emegwoako C. Paschal
The New Jerusalem Deliverance Ministry in Okene has been shut down by the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, for allegedly defrauding its members, and operating an unlicensed medical facility, selling “bulletproof water.”
According to reports, Peter Adeiza, the pastor of the church, has been running the facility since 2008, during which many patients are said to have died as a result of questionable medical procedures.
The state’s security adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara (retired), along with the commissioners for information and health, Kingsley Fanwo and Dr. Zekeri Usman, respectively, alongside other government representatives, and security personnel implemented the closure order on Monday, September 26th.
The church building was used as a psychiatric and rehabilitation facility, in addition to housing a hospital for receiving deliveries and treating illnesses, as many people were observed wearing chains on their hands and legs.
Members and worshipers attested to getting treatments from the “Man of God” for a variety of ailments.
The State Investigation Bureau of the Police and the Department of State Services conducted a preliminary investigation into the activities taking place in the church, and the pastor was subsequently detained, according to the state security adviser.
Omodara revealed there is sufficient evidence to show, as what they do is incompatible with both religious and medical practices, adding that;
“He will be charged and prosecuted in court in a few days, and if found guilty, he will pay the price.”
“We are here to carry out the order of the governor to see what is happening here and see how to safeguard the interest and health of our people,” Fanwo said in a statement to the media.”
Usman asserted that the government’s top priority continues to be the welfare of the state’s citizens and residents.
The state commissioner of police, Edward Egbuka, who was represented by the Okene Area Commander, ACP Ibrahim Usman, reassured the public that;
“The police and other security agencies are on the scene to make sure the premises remained sealed as well as to maintain law and order.”
