The Anambra State Government has demolished the Oba-based shrine of convicted native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as “Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki,” following his sentencing by the Anambra State High Court.
The demolition took place on Friday in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, shortly after a High Court sitting in Awka, presided over by Justice Jude Obiora, sentenced Nwangwu to 11 months’ imprisonment for his involvement in ritual practices known as “oke ite” and related offences.
Shrine Pulled Down, Ritual Objects Burnt
Operatives of the state security outfit, Agunechemba, carried out the demolition under the supervision of Ben Emeakayi, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security.
The expansive shrine, which housed native pots, moulded images, photographs of individuals, clothes and other ritual objects, was dismantled piece by piece before the items were set ablaze.
The action followed the court’s ruling earlier in the day, which convicted Nwangwu on charges linked to ritual practices and criminal activities.
Arrest and Prosecution
Nwangwu was arrested in February 2025 alongside two other native doctors, Eke Hit and Onye Eze, over allegations bordering on money rituals, “oke ite,” and the preparation of charms for criminal elements.
Their arrest came about a month after Governor Soludo declared a crackdown on native doctors, following the signing of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, which established the Agunechemba and Operation Udo-ga-chi security outfits.
State authorities had alleged that the activities of some native doctors were contributing to rising insecurity across Anambra, a trend officials say has significantly reduced since the enforcement drive began.
Court Strikes Out Six Counts
Out of the 10-count charge filed against Nwangwu, Justice Obiora struck out six counts and upheld four, leading to his 11-month custodial sentence.
The court also waived a total of six years’ imprisonment and a N60 million optional fine that would have run concurrently.
Friday’s demolition of the shrine signals the state government’s determination to enforce court judgments and sustain its broader campaign against ritual-related crimes and criminal practices in Anambra.
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