By Chuks Collins, Awka
An Anambra State High Court on Thursday sentenced a flamboyant and controversial native doctor based in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, to 11 months’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to multiple charges bordering on ritual practices.
The convict, Mr. Chukwudozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, was arraigned by the Anambra State Government over allegations of engaging in money ritual practices and preparing charms for criminal elements.
Nwangwu was charged alongside other alleged notorious native doctors, including Eke Hit and Onyeze Jisos, over accusations of involvement in activities linked to the acquisition of wealth through ritual means, including alleged money ritual sacrifices and related offences.
In its judgment, the court held that Nwangwu admitted to engaging in money ritual practices and preparing protective charms for criminals. He was accused of making talismans allegedly used by kidnappers and armed robbers, as well as aiding criminal elements through charms and other related means.
Beyond the prison term, the court ordered the destruction of his “Oba Shrine” and directed him to cease all forms of Okeite practice. He was further restrained from administering such charms in the future.
The court also ruled that upon completing his sentence at the Awka Correctional Centre, Nwangwu must publicly denounce Okeite and similar charm practices. Additionally, he was mandated to serve as an ambassador for youth re-orientation as part of efforts to discourage young people from engaging in ritual-related activities.
His conviction followed a guilty plea to the three-count charge filed against him by the state government, bringing the high-profile case to a close.
