Soludo Pardons Native Doctor Akwa Okuko, As Court Jails Another

Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has granted a pardon to a well-known controversial native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki.

Soludo announced the pardon on Friday during a visit to the Correctional Centre in Amawbia.

He said the development aimed to extend the pardon to Nwangwu who still had three weeks to complete his jail term, and to ensure the welfare and well-being of inmates were properly addressed.

Nwangwu was arrested in February 2025 by the Anambra State Government, over alleged involvement in fetish activities linked to charms reportedly prepared for youths for financial reasons, among other charges.

His arrest was part of the state government’s crackdown on activities it claims were contributing to criminality and fraudulent practices in Anambra State.

He was subsequently convicted and sentenced to two years’ imprisonment by the High Court sitting in Awka.

According to the ruling, part of the sentence would run concurrently with the time Nwangwu had already served in custody, which left him with 11 months to complete his jail term.

Additionally, the court ordered the demolition of his shrine and directed that, upon completing his sentence, Nwangwu would serve as an ambassador for youth reorientation.

He would also renounce Oke-ite and related charm practices, and publicly speak against such practices.

Nwangwu was arrested over alleged involvement in fetish activities linked to charms reportedly prepared for youths for financial reasons, among other charges.

Conversely, another popular native doctor, Ekene Igboekweze, popularly known as ”Eke Hit” has been sentenced to six 6 years imprisonment on count one, and another six years on count two.

The Anambra State High Court presided over by Justice Jude Obiorah ruled that both sentences are to run concurrently without option of fine, and in consideration of the period of detention.

Igboekweze was arrested alongside other native doctors for publicising charms for wealth, among others.

The convict and the other native doctors were arraigned before the Judge on April 4, 2025 on charges of conspiracy, kidnapping, preparing protective charms for criminals, and money rituals.

In his defence, Eke Hit, said he is a registered herbalist and member of Odinani Okija Traditional Association, explained that he only uses herbs and roots in his practice.

Delivering judgement, Justice Obiora agreed that the prosecution proved counts one and two beyond reasonable doubt, but resolved count three in favor of the defendant.

Admitting that he had learned his lessons before being sentenced, Eke Hit pleaded for forgiveness, urging the court to consider his family and newborn triplets, whom he has not seen.

Speaking to newsmen after the court proceedings, counsel to Eke Hit, Emmanuel Egbunonu, said the court was considerate in waiving the N40m fine attached to the two charges.