PORT HARCOURT — Tension has gripped the Onne community in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State after a group of youths stormed the shrine of a traditional priestess known as “Ezenwanyi,” destroying ritual objects and setting parts of the building on fire .
CDA News Nigeria gathered that the incident, which occurred on Monday, August 17, 2026, was led by a coalition of youths under Comrade Gift Aken and Pastor Arun Ejor . The group accused the woman of operating a shrine and engaging in traditional spiritual practices they considered harmful to the community . The youths reportedly claimed that idol worship had been abolished in Onne decades ago, citing a 1973 community covenant .
Viral videos of the incident showed the youths entering the woman’s compound, searching from room to room, and gathering materials they described as idols before setting them ablaze . The priestess reportedly identified herself as Eze Nwanyi and claimed the place was a church where she attended to people seeking help .
CDA News Nigeria reports that the incident has sparked widespread debate on social media over religious freedom and constitutional rights . A Port Harcourt-based rights activist, Prince Wiro, has condemned the invasion, calling for the arrest and prosecution of those involved . He cited Section 38(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience and religion .
However, Pastor Elijah, who participated in the destruction, defended the action, saying the group acted after receiving reports of idol worship. He warned landlords to ascertain tenants’ activities before renting out properties . Authorities have yet to officially comment on the incident .
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