Anambra Native Doctor ‘Akwa Okuko’ Sentenced To 2 Years In Jail

According to reports, Chidozie Nwangwu, a well-known native doctor in Anambra State popularly called Akwa Okuko, has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. Nwangwu was arrested in February 2025 by the Agunechemba Security outfit over allegations of aiding and abetting kidnapping and involvement in money rituals.

He was detained alongside two others, Mr. Okocha, also known as Onyeze Jesus, and Mr. Ekene, popularly called Eke Hit, who were also facing trial. Judgment was delivered on Friday by Justice Jude Obiorah, following Nwangwu’s guilty plea.

The court disclosed that Nwangwu had entered into a plea bargain with the Anambra State Government and had shown reasonable remorse. Justice Obiorah sentenced him to two years’ imprisonment on counts three, four, five, six, seven, and eight, with the sentences to run concurrently. Counts one, two, and three of the charges were struck out.

The conviction was based on both the Criminal Code and the Anambra Homeland Law. The judge stated, “Under the law, anyone who claims to possess powers to heal or make one rich through certain magical means like Okeite is liable to two years imprisonment. Any person who practices Okeite or ezenwanyi is liable to six years in prison.”

On counts one, five, and eight, the court initially imposed fines totaling ₦60 million, but this was waived due to the remorse shown by the convict. The 13 months Nwangwu had already spent in detention were deducted from his sentence, leaving 11 months to be served at the Awka Correctional Centre. Justice Obiorah rejected a request for him to serve his term at the Agunechemba facility, stating it was not a recognized correctional centre.

Additional court orders included the destruction of Nwangwu’s shrine in Oba, a public renouncement of Okeite practices recorded on video, and his appointment as an ambassador for youth reorientation, with the responsibility of cautioning young people against pursuing wealth through supernatural means.