Mathias Ezeaku Biography
Mathias Ezeaku is a polarizing figure in Nigeria, asserting himself as a traditional preacher and a prophet of Chukwuokikeabiama, the supreme deity in Igbo tradition. He serves as the founder and head of the Traditional Worship Centre, situated in Nkpor, close to Onitsha, within Anambra State. Notably, he’s recognized for vocal criticism directed at Christianity and Islam, alongside claims of performing miracles and delivering prophecies.
Early Life and Education
Mathias Ezeaku, born on February 26 in the 1970s (currently aged between 45 and 50 years old as of 2023), hails from Nnewi, Anambra State, and was raised in a Christian household. He excelled academically at St. John’s Primary School and Nnewi High School. Pursuing higher education, he completed studies in Electrical Engineering at the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, graduating in 2001. After working as an engineer for several years, he declared receiving a divine calling from Chukwuokikeabiama to preach the traditional Igbo religion.
Religious Career and Controversies
In 2010, Mathias Ezeaku initiated his religious journey by establishing a modest worship center in Nkpor, where he gathered a small group of adherents. This gathering became known as the Traditional Worship Centre, and Ezeaku proclaimed himself as the prophet and envoy of Chukwuokikeabiama, the revered creator of the universe and the Igbo ancestral figure. He asserted possessing abilities to heal the sick, dispel malevolent spirits, and foresee forthcoming events.
His outspoken views and challenges towards the doctrines and customs of Christianity and Islam drew attention from both the public and the media. Ezeaku criticized these religions as foreign and fraudulent, accusing numerous pastors and imams of deceit. He vehemently opposed the use of the Bible and Quran, urging his followers to embrace the Omenala, the traditional Igbo code of conduct. Ezeaku asserted that the Igbo people had forsaken their authentic religion and heritage, claiming that he was divinely commissioned by Chukwuokikeabiama to revive their original cultural essence.
Mathias asserted receiving numerous revelations and prophecies from Chukwuokikeabiama, some controversial and provocative. Among these, he foresaw Nigeria’s breakup in 2023 with the Igbo people establishing Biafra. Additionally, he claimed a vision of the second coming of Jesus as an Igbo man named Chukwuma, tasked with judgment and establishing Chukwuokikeabiama’s kingdom on earth.
His teachings provoked opposition from Christians and Muslims, branding him a heretic and blasphemer. Facing government hostility for alleged incitement of violence and secession, he was repeatedly arrested by the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), often securing release through legal means or purported divine intervention.
On November 19, 2023, during his Sunday service in Nkpor, Ezeaku was again arrested by individuals in police uniforms. Resisting arrest, his followers also resisted, resulting in gunfire, injuring one member shot in the leg.
The viral video capturing his arrest caused widespread indignation among his supporters and sympathizers across social media platforms. Following his apprehension, he was transported to the Police Annex in Awkuzu for detention and questioning. Despite this, the Anambra State Police Command refuted any awareness of the arrest, asserting an ongoing investigation into the incident.
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How did he become a Traditional Preacher?
Mathias Ezeaku, hailing from Enugu State, recounted his upbringing in a Christian household and schooling within the Catholic system. Despite his innate curiosity about his ancestral heritage, his parents and educators dissuaded him from exploring it. Growing discontent with Christianity’s doctrines, he gradually questioned its authenticity and relevance.
His departure from Christianity to embrace his traditional beliefs stemmed from a profound spiritual encounter with his ancestors in a dream. They purportedly disclosed the universe’s secrets and the true essence of God while instructing him to disseminate their message globally and debunk the falsehoods of Christianity and other religions.
Establishing the “Omenala bu Eziokwu” group in 2019, he embarked on preaching his beliefs through social media and public forums, attracting followers from diverse Nigerian regions and beyond who resonate with his mission. Ezeaku also conducts rituals and ceremonies for his adherents, encompassing naming ceremonies, initiation rites, healing practices, and protective rituals.
Personal Life
Mathias Ezeaku is wedded to Juliet Amarachi Ejiofor Ezeakuu, a former nurse who serves as his co-pastor and assistant. Together, they parent five children—Chukwuemeka, Chidinma, Chukwudubem, and Chinenye—comprising two boys and two girls.
Residing in a modest residence in Nkpor, they operate their worship center from their home. Described as a humble and magnanimous individual, Mathias actively aids the impoverished and those in need within his community. His affinity for music and art reflects in his engagement during services, where he often sings and dances.
Maintaining a Facebook page, he shares messages and videos, amassing a following exceeding 100,000 individuals who engage with his content.
Net Worth
According to various sources, Mathias Ezeaku has an estimated net worth of $50,000.
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