Three well-known native doctors in Anambra State — Chidozie Nwangwu (popularly known as “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki”), Onyebuchi Okocha (“Onyeze Jesus”), and Ekene Igboekweze (“Eke Hit”) — have pleaded not guilty to allegations of aiding criminals and engaging in money rituals.
The trio was arraigned separately before Justice Jude Obiorah at the Anambra State High Court in Awka on Friday, in a case instituted by the state government. They are accused of preparing charms for suspected criminals and performing ritual practices linked to financial gain.
Their arrests and subsequent arraignment follow the enforcement of Anambra’s new Homeland Security law and Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s crackdown on ritual-related crimes under the state’s Operation Udogachi initiative.
During Friday’s court proceedings, each defendant denied the charges. Their lawyers, however, described the allegations as unfounded. Counsel to Onyebuchi Okocha, Sir Bath Okafor-Ezedinobi, called on the state to drop the charges, stating that he had already filed a fundamental rights suit at the Federal High Court in Awka, alongside a bail application at the State High Court.
Kelvin Akunne, lawyer to Chidozie Nwangwu, expressed concern over the prolonged detention of his client before his court appearance, maintaining confidence in the defense’s case.
Justice Obiorah adjourned the matter to May 16, 2025, for continuation and ruling on the bail applications. The case continues to stir public interest amid Anambra’s broader effort to sanitize spiritual practices and strengthen security across the state.
