Anambra’s Famed Native Doctor, Akwa Okuko, Remains in Custody as Alleged Powers Fail to Secure Release

Two weeks have passed since the arrest of Chidozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, a prominent native doctor in Anambra State. Despite his reputed mystical abilities, Nwangwu remains detained, unable to secure his release through any alleged supernatural means.

Nwangwu was apprehended on February 8, 2025, by operatives of the state security outfit, Agunechemba, in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area. This arrest followed Governor Charles Soludo’s December 2024 directive to crack down on native doctors purportedly aiding criminal activities in the region.

During an interrogation led by Deputy Governor Onyeka Ibezim, Nwangwu denied involvement in ‘Oke Ite’ rituals, a practice alleged to involve illicit activities. He stated, “I stopped doing ‘Oke Ite’ a long time ago. That thing is not a charm. We only called it ‘Oke Ite’ because we put it in a pot.”

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have condemned Nwangwu’s arrest, labeling it illegal and a violation of his fundamental rights. IPOB’s counsel, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, emphasized that the detention infringes upon freedoms of thought, conscience, religion, and expression as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.

In the wake of Nwangwu’s arrest, reports indicate a climate of fear among other native doctors in Anambra State. Many are said to have fled the state or dismantled their shrines to avoid potential arrest, highlighting the broader impact of the government’s intensified scrutiny on traditional practices.

As of February 27, 2025, Nwangwu remains in custody, with investigations ongoing. The situation continues to spark debate over the balance between cultural practices and state security measures in Anambra State.