UYO – The embattled Nigerian-born Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Odiong, has strongly denied allegations of sexual misconduct levelled against him in the United States, describing reports linking him to abuse claims as a “false, salacious and one-sided smear campaign” designed to destroy his reputation.

In an open letter released Online to the public on Monday June 1, 2026 the Akwa Ibom-born cleric maintained his innocence and insisted that, he remains entitled to the presumption of innocence under American law until proven guilty.

Fr. Odiong accused sections of the media, particularly The Guardian, of publishing unverified and defamatory allegations against him without giving adequate consideration to facts that, according to him, undermine the credibility of the claims.

The priest stated that an independent investigation revealed that, the Archdiocese of New Orleans received only one formal complaint against him.

He alleged that the complainant had a history of financial and legal troubles and had made admissions in text messages suggesting she sometimes imagined events.

According to him, the allegations surfaced after he declined to become involved in a legal dispute concerning the woman, whom he claimed later sought financial compensation through the Archdiocese’s bankruptcy process.

Fr. Odiong further asserted that church authorities found the allegations to be “unbelievable, inconsistent and outlandish” and subsequently referred the matter to law enforcement agencies in Pennsylvania and Louisiana.

He maintained that, no criminal investigation was pursued and that he has never been charged with any offence or contacted by authorities over the claims.

The cleric also questioned the credibility of two additional anonymous allegations referenced in media reports, arguing that he had never been provided with details that would enable him to verify or respond to them.

Citing correspondence from St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office dated December 6, 2023, Fr. Odiong claimed that the complainant and her attorney declined to cooperate with law enforcement inquiries.

“I categorically deny all the false allegations made against me,” he stated, adding that he intends to pursue all available legal avenues to defend his reputation and clear his name.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the Catholic faith and his priestly vocation, saying he would continue serving under the authority of his bishop in Nigeria, who he said has been fully briefed on the findings of various investigations.

The priest’s response comes amid continued public interest in allegations that have generated controversy within Catholic circles in both Nigeria and the United States.

However, the matter has taken a more serious turn following reports that a Texas jury recently found Fr. Odiong guilty on one count of first-degree sexual assault, and two counts of second-degree sexual assault involving women said to have been under his spiritual care.

Prosecutors alleged that, the priest exploited his position as a spiritual adviser to initiate sexual relationships with vulnerable women who sought counselling and guidance during difficult periods of their lives.

The jury reportedly returned guilty verdicts after about two hours of deliberation. Sentencing is expected to determine the punishment he could face, including the possibility of a lengthy prison term.

While Fr. Odiong continues to deny wrongdoing and challenge allegations against him, the case has reignited debate over accountability, abuse of trust, and ethical conduct within religious institutions.

Observers note that the outcome of the legal process could have far-reaching implications for both the priest and the wider Catholic community.