Court Jails Anambra Native Doctor ‘Akwa Okuko’
Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as “Akwa Okuko tiwara aki,” has been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment by an Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka.
Presiding judge, Jude Obiorah, convicted Nwangwu after he entered a plea bargain on several counts related to the practice and promotion of “Okeite” — described in court as supernatural worship and public propagation of wealth without legitimate means — offences punishable under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law.
Charges and Plea Bargain
The defendant had been in detention for 13 months following his arrest by the state-owned security outfit, Agunechemba. He initially faced charges including alleged involvement in money rituals, ties to kidnapping, dealing in illegal substances, and illegal firearm possession.
However, under the plea bargain arrangement:
Counts 1, 2, 9, and 10 bordering on criminal offences under the Criminal Code were struck out.
He was convicted on Counts 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Justice Obiorah stated that the plea bargain was voluntary and showed remorse on the part of the defendant.
Sentence and Fines
The court sentenced Nwangwu to:
Two years’ imprisonment on two counts (to run concurrently).
A fine of ₦2 million each on three other counts, amounting to ₦60 million in total.
The judge opted for fines on some counts in view of the plea bargain, the defendant’s remorse, and his commitment to becoming a youth ambassador promoting entrepreneurship.
Having already spent 13 months in detention, the court ordered that he serve the remaining 11 months at the Awka Correctional Centre.
Additional Court Orders
The court also made the following orders:
Immediate demolition and documentation of the shrine in Oba, Idemili South LGA, allegedly used for Okeite practices.
A permanent prohibition from practising Okeite or promoting wealth through unverifiable supernatural means.
Upon completion of his sentence, he must publicly denounce Okeite in a recorded video to be published on his social media platforms.
He is to serve as a youth ambassador for entrepreneurship and public reorientation.
Although the defence requested that he serve his sentence at the Agunechemba facility, the court declined, ruling that the outfit lacks the legal authority to detain convicted persons and that he must serve his term at the Awka Correctional Centre.
