In a significant legal development, three prominent native doctors in Anambra State Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki; Onyebuchi Okocha, known as Onyeze Jesus; and Ekene Igboekweze, known as Eke Hit—have been remanded by a state High Court. The trio was arraigned before Justice Jude Obiorah on charges related to preparing charms for criminals and engaging in money rituals, among other offenses.
The native doctors were arrested about a month ago by operatives of the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, following the signing of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law by Governor Chukwuma Soludo. This legislation aimed to address rising insecurity in the state, partly attributed to the activities of some native doctors. The arrests were part of a broader crackdown on what the government perceives as fraudulent traditional practices contributing to insecurity.
During the court proceedings, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, their defense team argued that they had not been given sufficient time to prepare their defense, as the court documents were not served in a timely manner. Despite this, Justice Obiorah ordered the suspects to be returned to the Agunechemba detention facility until the next hearing, which has been scheduled for April 11, 2025.
The case has sparked controversy, with some groups criticizing the government’s actions as targeting traditional practitioners unfairly. A rights group, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law, has called for the release of over 40 native doctors detained in the state, arguing that their detention violates human rights and freedom of religion.
The Anambra State government’s stance is that these arrests are necessary to curb the influence of native doctors believed to be aiding criminals and engaging in illicit activities. The new law includes provisions that criminalize the use of charms for illegal purposes, such as money rituals, and imposes severe penalties for those found guilty. As the case unfolds, it will be closely watched for its implications on religious freedom and the role of traditional practices in modern society.
