A major twist has emerged in the alleged sexual assault case involving an Ebonyi-based cleric, Bishop Samuel Onyeagoziri Okorie, as sickle cell advocate, Aisha Edwards Maduagwu, has formally withdrawn her petition against him before the Ebonyi State Police Command.
Maduagwu, who initially petitioned the Ebonyi Commissioner of Police, Adaku Uche-Anya, and Governor Francis Nwifuru over alleged sexual exploitation of a young woman by the bishop, said she discovered deceit and blackmail in the scandal after further investigation.
The bishop, who had reportedly been in police custody for two weeks, was accused by a lady identified as Euphemia of having a long-term sexual relationship with her under the guise of providing healing for her sickle cell condition.
However, in a press statement issued on Tuesday, Maduagwu—who also serves as the National Coordinator of the Association of People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder (APLSCD)—said her findings proved that the relationship between the cleric and the woman was consensual and not coercive.
“After my investigations with testimonies from several sources, I am withdrawing my initial report against Bishop Okorie,” she said. “He personally apologized to me in the presence of his lawyer and police officers at the Ebonyi Police Headquarters. I have forgiven him and believe this matter can be resolved amicably.”
According to her, the family of the young woman had allegedly encouraged the relationship, hoping it would lead to childbirth since she was their only surviving child living with sickle cell disorder.
She further stated that the bishop supported the lady financially, purchased a minibus for her business, sponsored her education, and even donated blood to her during health crises.
Maduagwu added that the woman, aged 22 at the time of their meeting, was not a minor and that no evidence supported claims of threats or forceful acts as earlier alleged. She also accused unnamed individuals—including a businessman, a politician, and another cleric—of sponsoring the scandal to tarnish the bishop’s reputation.
“It is unfortunate that some podcasters and media outlets promote one-sided stories for attention without verifying facts,” she cautioned. “Responsible journalism requires hearing from all parties before publishing sensitive issues.”
The case, which sparked massive social media debate in Ebonyi and beyond, appears to be taking a new turn as the advocate’s withdrawal raises questions about the authenticity of the initial allegations.
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