The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has suspended Rev. Ifunaya Maduka for six months without pay after he admitted to staging miracles, the Diocese on the Niger said.
Maduka was vicar of St. Paul’s Parish in Nteje, Anambra State. Bishop on the Niger Rt. Rev. Owen Nwokolo issued the suspension in a letter dated April 27.
The bishop said an internal investigation found that Maduka paid people to act out healings and prophetic encounters and presented them to the congregation as divine interventions. Maduka admitted to the practice when presented with evidence, according to the letter.
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Nwokolo said the actions amounted to ecclesiastical misconduct and brought the diocese into “public ridicule.” The letter also said the conduct bordered on obtaining money under false pretenses.
The suspension takes effect immediately. Maduka was ordered to leave the church parsonage within four days and hand over parish property to the People’s Warden.
The diocese said a panel will be set up this month to investigate further. The panel’s findings could lead to additional sanctions.
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