Sickle Cell Patient Accuses Bishop Onyeagoziri of Sexual Exploitation Disguised as Deliverance

A disturbing case of alleged spiritual and sexual exploitation has emerged in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, involving Bishop Samuel Onyeagoziri, the General Overseer of Champions of the Truth Church. A young woman, Euphemia Ede, has accused the clergyman of sexually abusing her for four years under the guise of divine healing.

Euphemia, who lives with sickle cell disease, recounted that her ordeal began in 2021 when she was introduced to Bishop Onyeagoziri. Desperate for a cure, she believed his claim that he could miraculously “change her genotype from SS to AA.” However, according to her, the bishop said the supposed healing required a “spiritual cleansing” — which involved having sexual intercourse with him for seven nights.

Out of faith, fear, and desperation, she agreed. But the relationship, she said, did not stop after the seven days. Euphemia alleged that Bishop Onyeagoziri continued to have sex with her for over four years, manipulating her emotionally and spiritually while threatening her with exposure and violence whenever she tried to end the relationship.

In a chilling detail, she claimed the bishop forced her to take nude photos and videos, and on one occasion allegedly pointed a gun at her to stop her from leaving. Despite the repeated encounters, her health reportedly worsened — a sign, she said, that the “healing” was a lie.

After years of silence, Euphemia decided to speak out. With help from human rights advocates and legal representatives, a petition was filed to the police, leading to Bishop Onyeagoziri’s arrest in Abakaliki. The Ebonyi State Police Command confirmed that the cleric is under investigation for sexual exploitation, coercion, and fraudulent medical claims.

Following his arrest, the church premises were sealed, and outrage spread across social media as Nigerians condemned the alleged abuse. Women’s rights groups described the case as a clear example of spiritual manipulation and rape, calling for stronger laws to protect vulnerable people from predatory religious figures.

Medical professionals have also weighed in, stressing that genotype cannot change through prayer or sex, warning that false spiritual claims can endanger lives.

As investigations continue, the case has ignited nationwide debate over religious exploitation and accountability. Many are demanding justice for Euphemia and for others who may have fallen victim to similar manipulations masked as deliverance.

Beyond the crime itself, the story raises painful questions about trust, faith, and vulnerability — reminding Nigerians that true spirituality heals, but false prophets harm.