The hearing of a case involving Abia-born cleric, Bishop Emeka Nwankpa, was stalled on Monday after lawyers representing the Anambra State Government failed to appear in court.
At the resumed proceedings, Bishop Nwankpa was represented by a strong legal team made up of three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) and seven other lawyers, who appeared to defend him against allegations filed by the Anambra State Government, which accused him of being a fake pastor.
However, the matter could not proceed as neither the state’s Attorney General nor any legal representative of the government was present in court to prosecute or respond to the case.
Due to the absence of the government’s legal team, the presiding judge adjourned the case to Friday, 19th June 2026, for further hearing.
Meanwhile, a large crowd of worshippers, supporters, and acquaintances gathered at the court premises in solidarity with the cleric, expressing optimism that he would be cleared of the allegations.
It would be recalled that the Anambra State Government had dragged Bishop Nwankpa and detained him as a fake pastor.
It was alleged that the action of the state government was a result of Bishop Nwankpa’s alleged support for the state governor’s opponent, Nicholas Ukachukwu, during the last governorship election in the state.
Bishop Nwankpa is still in detention, whereas the Monday appearance in court was for consideration of bail for the cleric.
Bishop Nwankpa serves as the General Overseer/Senior Pastor of Chapel of Faith Bible Assembly, located at 3-3 Junction, Onitsha.