An Anambra State High Court has sentenced a controversial native doctor, Chukwudozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, to 11 months’ imprisonment over money ritual offences.
Justice Jude Obiorah delivered the judgment on Friday after Nwangwu, who operates from Oba in Idemili South Local Government Area, pleaded guilty to charges filed by the Anambra State Government.
Akwa Okuko was arraigned alongside other alleged native doctors, including Eke Hit and Onyeze Jisos, over allegations bordering on money ritual practices and involvement in activities linked to acquiring wealth through ritual means.
In its ruling, the court held that the convict admitted engaging in money ritual practices and preparing protective charms for criminals. He was also accused of producing talismans allegedly used by kidnappers and armed robbers, as well as supporting criminal elements through charms and related activities.
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Beyond the prison term, the court ordered that his “Oba Shrine” be demolished. It also directed him to stop all forms of Okeite practice and refrain from administering such charms in the future.
The court further ruled that after serving his sentence at the Awka Correctional Centre, Akwa Okuko must publicly denounce Okeite and similar charm practices. He was also mandated to serve as an Ambassador for youth re-orientation as part of efforts to discourage young people from engaging in ritual-related activities.
The conviction followed his guilty plea to all three charges, bringing the high-profile case to a close.