It was a chaotic scene at the premises of the Anambra State High Court, Awka, on Tuesday, as suspected supporters and church members of the General Overseer of Dayspring Assembly, Awada-Obosi, Pastor Harrison Anazodo, allegedly attacked journalists covering his court appearance.
The supporters reportedly covered the cleric with umbrellas and their hands to shield him from cameras while attempting to move him into the courtroom.
Journalists were pushed by the vehicle conveying Anazodo as it reversed towards the court entrance.
It was gathered that at least three journalists had their phones damaged during the altercation, while the supporters allegedly occupied available spaces inside the courtroom, leaving little room for journalists and other observers.
Anazodo was arrested by officials of the Anambra State Government on June 10, 2026, and is standing trial before Justice Jude Obiora on a seven-count charge bordering on alleged propagation of wealth accumulation through supernatural means, an act said to be proscribed under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025.
The charges also include allegations of murder, abduction, and unlawful separation and isolation of individuals from their families and allegedly keeping them in his residence.
Reacting to the incident after the proceedings, the Anambra State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, condemned the attack, describing the court premises and courtroom as hallowed places where such conduct should not be tolerated.
Nweke had reported the incident to the court and requested that it be noted in the proceedings, adding that he intended to escalate the matter to law enforcement authorities.
According to him, counsel to Anazodo subsequently apologised to him, the journalists and the court, and agreed to replace the damaged gadgets.
The Attorney-General said the court, in a bench ruling, accepted the apology and directed that the damaged gadgets be replaced, while appealing to him to let the matter rest.
He said the court also reaffirmed that proceedings in the case would remain public and accessible to journalists, warning that no journalist should be harassed while carrying out professional duties.
Nweke added that the court warned that any recurrence of the incident could lead to the trial being conducted on camera.
