Anambra Native Doctor ‘Akwa Okuko’ Sentenced to 12 Years for Aiding Internet Fraüdsters

A State High Court in Awka, Anambra State, has sentenced popular native doctor Chukwudozie Nwangwu, widely known as “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki,” to prison over multiple criminal charges linked to ritual practices and support for criminal activities.

Nwangwu was arrested in February 2025 by operatives of Agunechemba, a local vigilante group, for allegedly preparing charms for criminals. He was subsequently charged by the Anambra State Police on a 10-count indictment, including ritualism, robbery, conspiracy, aiding internet fraudsters, and preparing charms for criminal purposes.

Although he initially pleaded not guilty, he changed his plea during proceedings on Friday. Justice Jude Obiora convicted him on counts 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, while striking out counts 1, 2, 9, and 10.

The court sentenced him to two years imprisonment on each of the six counts, totalling 12 years, but ruled that the sentences would run concurrently, resulting in an effective term of two years.

The judge also ordered that the 13 months Nwangwu had already spent in detention at the Agunechemba facility be counted toward his sentence. He will now serve the remaining 11 months at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Awka.

The court further ordered the complete demolition of his shrine in Oba, Idemili South LGA, with instructions that the process be recorded on video.

In addition, Nwangwu was directed to sign an undertaking renouncing “Okite” an Igbo term for ritual practices involving a large pot and upon release, to serve as a youth ambassador to counter the narrative he allegedly promoted about acquiring wealth through illegal and ritual means. He is also required to use his social media platforms to publicly declare that he has abandoned such practices.

A defence request for him to serve his term at the Agunechemba facility was denied, with the court insisting he be held at the Awka Correctional Centre to ensure proper correctional standards.