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A former Catholic Knight of St John International, Sir James Louis Okoye, has reportedly been arrested in Nnewi, Anambra State, after allegedly conducting a traditional cleansing exercise on the streets of the community.
Okoye, also known as Ebube Anaedo, was reportedly apprehended by local vigilantes on Saturday while dressed in red and carrying a bell, with a fresh palm frond placed between his lips.
A short video circulating online showed Okoye sitting on the floor at what appeared to be a vigilante office, where he was questioned about the activity.
Responding to questions, the former knight reportedly said he was carrying out the exercise to cleanse Nnewi land, which he claimed had been desecrated.
He insisted that he had committed no offence and said his actions were intended to protect the interests of the community.
Okoye also claimed that he obtained permission from the traditional ruler of Nnewi, Igwe Kenneth Orizu, before embarking on the exercise.
The incident has renewed attention on Okoye, who became prominent in January following a controversy at the official consecration of Our Lady of Assumpta Catholic Church, Nnewi.
During the event, Okoye protested what he described as the church's failure to recognise the contributions of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah to the construction of the cathedral.
In a video that went viral at the time, he was seen removing his shoes and knighthood hat while leaving the church, shouting “Ifeanyi Ubah ndo.” He subsequently dusted his shoes and declared “Akachaam,” which he described as a sign of his renunciation of Christianity.
Okoye later apologised to the late Ubah and announced his decision to leave Catholicism over the issue.
His action generated controversy in Nnewi and reportedly led to his excommunication from the Knight of St John International.
Following Saturday's incident, reactions on social media were divided, with some users questioning his mental state, while others argued that he was merely practising his traditional beliefs and had not harmed anyone.
The circumstances surrounding his arrest and whether any formal charges have been brought against him were not immediately clear.
