In a recent judgment by the High Court in Awka, Anambra State, Justice Jude Obiora sentenced Chidozie Nwangwu, a native doctor popularly known as 'Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki', to 11 months in prison. He was convicted alongside two other native doctors, Eke Hit and Onye Eze, for engaging in illegal practices related to money rituals and preparing charms for criminal activities. This ruling comes amid an increased crackdown on such practices in the region, which the local government views as significant contributors to the growing insecurity.

The arrests of Nwangwu and his co-defendants occurred earlier this year following the declaration by Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo to combat the rampant activities of native doctors. This action was prompted by the signing of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, which established security initiatives such as Agunechemba and Operation Udo-ga-chi. These outfits have thus far reported positive outcomes, asserting that efforts to curtail ritualistic activities have led to a noticeable decrease in crime.

The case highlights the ongoing struggle against practices deemed harmful to public safety in Nigeria, where ritualistic activities have often been connected to insecurity and violence. The state government aims to restore order and foster a sense of security among residents by targeting these practices and addressing the fears of the populace regarding crime fueled by such ritualistic beliefs.