Anambra Native Doctor Akwa Okuko Sentenced to Two Years, Fined N60 Million Over Ritual Crimes

Justice Obiorah hands down prison term after guilty plea, orders shrine destruction and youth reorientation

Awka, Anambra State – Popular native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okuko, has been sentenced to two years in prison and fined N60 million for aiding and abetting kidnapping and engaging in ritualistic money-making practices.

The ruling was delivered on Friday by Justice Jude Obiorah following Nwangwu’s guilty plea and a plea bargain with the state government. Nwangwu had been in detention since his arrest in February 2025 by the Agunechemba Security Outfit.

Charges and Sentencing

Justice Obiorah noted that Nwangwu had shown reasonable remorse, resulting in a reduced sentence. While counts one, two, and three were struck out, he was convicted on counts three through eight.

• Prison Term: 2 years (concurrent)
• Fine: N20 million each for counts one, five, and eight, totaling N60 million; however, the fine was waived due to the remorse shown.
• Time Served: Nwangwu had already spent 13 months in detention, leaving 11 months to serve at Awka Correctional Centre.

The judgment draws from both the criminal code and Anambra Homeland Law, which prescribe prison terms for claiming supernatural powers to generate wealth or perform healing.

Court Orders and Atonement

Justice Obiorah also mandated corrective actions to prevent future offenses:

• The defendant’s shrine in Oba is to be destroyed.
• He is prohibited from practicing Okeite or any ritual magic.
• Nwangwu must issue a public video statement denouncing supernatural wealth practices.
• He will serve as an ambassador for youth reorientation, cautioning young people against seeking wealth through ritualistic means.

Two colleagues arrested alongside Nwangwu — Okocha (Onyeze Jesus) and Ekene (Eke Hit) — remain under trial.

The sentencing has sparked conversations about ritual crimes and youth manipulation in Anambra, as authorities continue efforts to curb illegal occult practices.