BREAKING: Popular native doctor, Akwa Okuko sentenced to two years in prison, fined N60m
Anambra Native Doctor Sentenced to Two Years in Prison
AWKA, Nigeria — Popular native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko, has been sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges related to kidnapping and ritual practices.
Nwangwu was arrested in February 2025 by the Agunechemba Security outfit on allegations of complicity in kidnapping and the performance of money rituals. He was apprehended alongside two associates, Okocha, recognized as Onyeze Jesus, and Ekene, known as Eke Hit.
During a trial that culminated on Friday, Justice Jude Obiorah delivered the verdict, confirming that Nwangwu had entered a plea bargain with the state government. The judge indicated that the sentence reflected Nwangwu’s demonstrated remorse.
The court convicted Nwangwu on several counts, specifically counts three through eight, resulting in a two-year prison term to be served concurrently. Counts one and two were dismissed by the judge, who referenced relevant provisions of both the criminal code and Anambra Homeland Law.
Justice Obiorah specified that individuals claiming to possess mystical powers for healing or wealth acquisition could face up to two years in prison. Furthermore, practitioners of Okeite or ezenwanyi, a form of ritual practice, could be sentenced to six years.
In addition to his prison sentence, Nwangwu faced fines of N20 million on counts one, five, and eight. However, the judge waived these fines, citing the defendant’s remorse. Nwangwu has already spent 13 months in detention, which will be credited toward his sentence, leaving him with approximately 11 months to serve at the Awka Correctional Centre.
The court also imposed additional requirements, mandating the destruction of Nwangwu’s shrine in Oba. He is prohibited from practicing Okeite upon release and must publicly denounce the practice. The judge outlined that he is to become an ambassador for youth reorientation, making public statements to warn against pursuing wealth through supernatural means.
