Okonkwo Samuel
The Anambra State government has enacted the Homeland Security Law, 2025, aimed at addressing criminal activities involving supernatural practices, the misuse of religious places, and rituals involving human parts. The law, signed into effect to enhance public safety and discourage unethical practices, outlines strict penalties for offenders.
Clause 18: Offenses on Use of Supernatural Powers
This section criminalizes activities involving the use of supernatural powers for illicit purposes. Key highlights include:
1. Individuals practicing or promoting wealth accumulation through supernatural means (e.g., Okeite or Eze Nwanyi) face six years imprisonment or a fine of ₦20 million, or both.
2. Sacrifices or dumping of charms in public places or water bodies for such purposes attract the same penalty.
3. Misleading the public by claiming to possess supernatural powers or benefiting financially from such claims is also punishable by six years imprisonment, a ₦20 million fine, or both.
4. Suspected offenders must prove their claimed supernatural powers during investigations, which are to be reviewed by the State Attorney General before prosecution.
Clause 19: Offenses Involving the Use of Religious Places
The misuse of religious sites for criminal activities is another focus of the law. Provisions include:
1. Using a religious place to commit or facilitate a crime attracts a penalty of six years imprisonment or a ₦20 million fine, or both.
2. The law empowers the Governor to order the sealing of such locations pending investigations.
3. If found culpable, individuals involved face prosecution, and the implicated property remains sealed unless directed otherwise by the court or Governor.
Clause 20: Offenses Involving Human Parts
To curb ritual killings and related atrocities, the law imposes severe penalties:
• Any ritual involving human parts carries a sentence of 25 years imprisonment, with no option for a fine.
Government’s Commitment to Enforcement
The Homeland Security Law underscores the state’s resolve to safeguard its citizens from exploitative and criminal practices disguised as cultural or religious rites. The government has pledged strict enforcement through law enforcement agencies and collaboration with community leaders.
