The Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, Most Reverend Godfrey Onah, has attributed the rise of money rituals—locally known as “Okeite”—among Igbo youths to poor governance and the influence of prosperity-driven religious teachings.
Speaking at a South-East colloquium on neo-religious practices held in Enugu, Bishop Onah condemned manipulative religious leaders who, he said, exploit poverty and frustration with false promises of quick wealth. He warned that such exploitation risks undermining faith and traditional Igbo values as young people turn to illicit practices in disillusionment.
Also at the event, Methodist Church leader Dr. Oliver Aba urged religious and traditional figures to scrutinise the origins of wealth among their followers and refuse complicitly offering honour to those with illicit gains.
Policy strategist Prof. Sam Amadi argued that Okeite is symptomatic of a deeper erosion of social values—spurred by the decline in religious and cultural institutions’ roles in nurturing moral conduct.
Represented by the Secretary to Enugu State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Governor Peter Mbah pledged that the administration would enforce existing laws against anyone engaging in money rituals and uphold merit-based values.
