Anambra demolishes shrine as native doctor jailed 11 months
The Anambra State Government has demolished the shrine of native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu following his 11-month jail sentence for ritual practices.
The Anambra State Government has taken decisive action by demolishing the shrine of Chidozie Nwangwu, a notable native doctor known as "Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki," in response to a recent judicial decision. This act was carried out by the state security outfit Agunechemba, under the supervision of Governor Chukwuma Soludo's Special Adviser on Community Security. The shrine, located in Oba, was dismantled meticulously and set ablaze, symbolizing a strong stance against alleged ritual practices in the region.
The demolition follows a judgment issued by Justice Jude Obiora at the High Court in Awka, where Nwangwu was sentenced to 11 months in prison for his involvement in controversial ritual activities termed "oke ite". Along with two other native doctors, he was found guilty of offenses that have sparked public concern about such practices and their implications for community safety. The severity of the sentence reflects the government's determination to curb ritualistic practices that are often viewed as harmful and dangerous.
This incident not only highlights the legal actions taken against individuals engaged in such rituals, but also resonates with broader socio-cultural issues in Nigeria surrounding traditional beliefs and the governance of such practices. The community may view this action as a necessary measure to enhance security and promote lawful behavior. However, it also raises questions about the delicate balance between tradition and modern legal frameworks in Nigerian society, and how states navigate these tensions.