Celebrity Native Doctor Akwaokuko Sentenced to Two Years for Ritual Offences in Anambra
In a landmark ruling, the Anambra State High Court in Awka has sentenced celebrity native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as "Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki," to two years' imprisonment for his involvement in ritual practices and related offences. Justice Jude Obiora delivered the judgement on Friday, February 27, 2026, following a plea bargain agreement with the Anambra State Government.
Reduced Sentence and Court Orders
The court reduced Nwangwu's original six-year prison term to two years as part of the plea bargain. Further, the sentence was decreased to 11 months, considering he had already spent 13 months in detention under the Agunechemba Security Squad while awaiting trial. Justice Obiora emphasized that the concurrent sentence reflects the severity of the crimes while acknowledging the defendant's cooperation.
Key court orders include:
- Nwangwu must publicly denounce ritual practices through videos posted on all his social media platforms.
- He is to serve as a Youth Entrepreneurship Ambassador for Anambra State after his imprisonment.
- He must produce videos and reports discouraging youths from engaging in wealth-seeking practices linked to "oke ite" and other rituals.
- His controversial shrine in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, is to be demolished, with the destruction recorded on video.
Justice Obiora stated, "He will become an Ambassador for youth re-orientation. His Oba shrine is to be destroyed. He will no longer practise Oke ite and will not administer such charms. Upon completion of his imprisonment, he will make public statements denouncing Oke Ité and such charm practices." Nwangwu will serve his sentence at the Awka Correctional Centre.
Background of the Case
Nwangwu was arraigned alongside two other native doctors, Eke Hit and Onye Eze, on allegations including money rituals, "oke ite," and preparing charms for criminals. The case gained notoriety due to Nwangwu's celebrity status and previous arrests. In a related incident, he was arrested for the killing of a pregnant nurse in Anambra State, where the 26-year-old prime suspect allegedly conspired with gang members to mutilate the victim's body. Police investigations are ongoing following the arrest of Nwafor on February 11, 2026.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Nwangwu was arrested on February 8, 2025, by operatives of the Agunechemba security group for allegedly preparing charms for kidnappers and internet fraudsters, known as "yahoo boys." At that time, he faced potential penalties of up to six years in prison, a N20 million fine, or both if found guilty.
Implications and Public Response
This sentencing highlights the Nigerian judiciary's efforts to combat ritual crimes and promote youth re-orientation. The court's innovative approach, combining imprisonment with ambassadorial duties, aims to leverage Nwangwu's influence to deter others from similar practices. Public reaction has been mixed, with some praising the sentence as a deterrent, while others question the effectiveness of such measures in curbing deep-rooted ritual activities.
The demolition of his shrine and the public denouncement orders are seen as symbolic steps to dismantle the infrastructure supporting these offences. As Nwangwu begins his 11-month term, authorities hope this case will serve as a warning to others involved in illicit ritual practices across Nigeria.
