The hearing of a case involving Abia-based cleric, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, was on Monday stalled after legal representatives of the Anambra State Government failed to appear in court.
At the resumed proceedings, Bishop Nwankpa was represented by a strong defence team comprising three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and seven other lawyers, who appeared ready to contest allegations that he is a “fake pastor” levelled against him by the Anambra State Government.
However, the prosecution side was absent, as neither the state’s Attorney General nor any counsel representing the government showed up for the hearing.
Due to the absence of the state’s legal team, the presiding judge was unable to proceed with the matter and consequently adjourned the case to Friday, June 19, 2026, for continuation of hearing.
Meanwhile, a large number of supporters, worshippers, and associates of the cleric gathered at the court premises in solidarity, expressing confidence that he would be cleared of the allegations.
Bishop Nwankpa, the General Overseer of Chapel of Faith Bible Assembly in Onitsha, is currently facing detention linked to the case. The court session scheduled for Monday was expected to consider his bail application.
The cleric had earlier been accused by the Anambra State Government of operating as a fake pastor, a claim that reportedly led to his arrest and continued detention.
There have also been allegations suggesting political undertones behind the case, with claims linking it to his alleged support for a rival candidate during the last governorship election in the state.
The matter has been adjourned as legal proceedings await the appearance of the prosecution team.
Court Adjourns Fake Pastor Case Over Absence of Anambra Legal Team
