Vigilantes in Nnewi, Anambra State, have arrested Sir James Louis Okoye, a former Catholic Knight of St John International, after he was seen performing what he described as a ritual cleansing of Nnewi land. The arrest occurred on Saturday, September 5, when Okoye was spotted on the streets wearing a red dress, holding fresh palm fronds between his lips, and ringing a bell.
Background: Renunciation of Christianity
Okoye first gained public attention in January 2026, during the official opening of Our Lady of Assumpta Catholic Church, Nnewi. At that event, he reportedly renounced Christianity due to the non-recognition of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who he claimed built the cathedral to near completion before his death.
Videos from the January ceremony showed Okoye removing his shoes and knighthood hat as he stepped out of the cathedral, shouting, “Ifeanyi Ubah ndo,” meaning “Ifeanyi Ubah sorry.” He also dusted his shoes at the gate and shouted “Akachaam,” signaling that he was done with Christianity.
Saturday's Arrest and Interrogation
After months of silence, Okoye reappeared on Saturday, September 5, 2026, in a red dress with palm fronds in his mouth and a bell in hand, walking through Nnewi streets. Vigilantes apprehended him and took him to what appeared to be their office, where a short video showed him sitting on the floor during interrogation.
In the video, Okoye explained that he was engaged in a cleansing exercise for Nnewi land because the community had been “desecrated.” He insisted he had done nothing wrong and that his actions were for the good of Nnewi town.
Public Reaction and Mixed Opinions
The incident has sparked mixed reactions online, with many people claiming that Okoye may be mentally unstable. However, others have expressed sympathy, noting his strong attachment to the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, whom he credited with building the cathedral.
The vigilantes have not yet disclosed whether Okoye will be handed over to the police or released after questioning. The former knight's arrest highlights ongoing tensions in Nnewi over the recognition of the late senator's contributions to the church and community.
