In a recent address during a visit to Oba, Anambra State, Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo addressed the ongoing detention of several prominent native doctors, including Chigozie Nwangu, widely known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, Eke Hit from Okija, and Onyeze Jesus from Nkpor. These individuals were arrested in February 2025 on serious charges, including promoting fraudulent get-rich-quick schemes, preparing charms for suspected criminals, and misleading the youth by fostering a belief in acquiring wealth without legitimate effort or hard work. The arrests sparked significant attention in Anambra, as these figures are regarded as influential within their respective communities.
During the visit to Oba, the hometown of Akwa Okuko, Governor Soludo was met with impassioned pleas from local youths and community members advocating for the release of the detained native doctor. They described Akwa Okuko as a vital figure in the community, emphasizing his contributions and influence. The appeals underscored the cultural and social significance of native doctors in certain parts of Anambra, where traditional practices and beliefs remain deeply ingrained. However, the Governor was resolute in his response, stressing the importance of adhering to legal processes and the rule of law, while outlining the conditions under which he might consider intervening in the matter.
Governor Soludo made it clear that the issue of the detained native doctors is now firmly within the jurisdiction of the judicial system, and as such, it is beyond his unilateral authority to order their immediate release. “You are asking for the release of Akwa Okuko, but I want to say that there is a process,” Soludo stated during his address. “There is a process for me to follow, and there is a process for the court to follow too. Where we are now is the process of the court.” His remarks were intended to clarify that the matter is no longer within the executive’s direct control but is instead subject to the legal proceedings currently underway.
The Governor emphasized that the fastest way to resolve the situation is to allow the judicial process to run its course. He urged the community to pray for a speedy trial, noting that this would expedite the resolution of the case. Soludo explained that only after the court concludes its proceedings—whether the individuals are found guilty or acquitted—can further steps be considered. Specifically, he noted that if the detained native doctors are convicted, community leaders would then have the opportunity to approach him to discuss the possibility of a pardon or other forms of clemency. Until that point, however, he stated that his hands are tied, as the judiciary must operate independently without interference from the executive arm of government.
The arrests of Akwa Okuko, Eke Hit, and Onyeze Jesus have sparked widespread debate in Anambra, raising questions about the role of traditional spiritual leaders in modern society and the fine line between cultural practices and criminality. The allegations against the native doctors are serious, with authorities accusing them of exploiting vulnerable individuals through fraudulent schemes promising instant wealth. Additionally, they are alleged to have prepared charms for suspected criminals, which authorities claim contributes to crime and insecurity in the state. The charge of misleading youths into believing they can achieve wealth without legitimate hard work has also drawn significant concern, as it is seen as undermining the values of diligence and integrity that Soludo’s administration has sought to promote.
Anambra State, under Soludo’s leadership, has prioritized economic development, youth empowerment, and the eradication of crime. The Governor, a former Central Bank of Nigeria chief, has consistently advocated for policies that promote sustainable wealth creation through entrepreneurship, education, and innovation. The allegations against the native doctors, particularly the promotion of get-rich-quick schemes, run counter to these principles, which may explain the state’s firm stance on pursuing legal action against them. Soludo’s administration has also taken a hardline approach to tackling insecurity, with efforts to dismantle networks that enable criminal activities, including those allegedly supported by some of the detained individuals.
The detention of these native doctors has not only legal but also cultural implications. In many parts of Anambra, native doctors hold significant influence, often serving as spiritual guides, mediators, and healers within their communities. For some, figures like Akwa Okuko are seen as custodians of tradition, providing services that resonate with deeply held cultural beliefs. The youths in Oba, for instance, view Akwa Okuko as a community leader whose influence extends beyond spiritual matters to social and economic support. This perception has fueled calls for his release, with supporters arguing that his detention could disrupt the social fabric of the community.
However, the allegations against the native doctors have also highlighted the challenges of regulating traditional practices in a modern legal framework. The accusations of fraud and aiding criminality have raised questions about the extent to which native doctors should be held accountable for their actions, particularly when their practices may exploit vulnerable individuals or contribute to societal harm. Soludo’s insistence on allowing the judicial process to proceed underscores his commitment to upholding the rule of law, even in the face of community pressure. This approach reflects a broader effort to balance respect for cultural traditions with the need to address practices that may undermine public safety and economic progress.
The Governor’s remarks during his visit to Oba also served as a call for patience and understanding among the community. By emphasizing the importance of a speedy trial, Soludo sought to reassure residents that justice would be served, whether through conviction or acquittal. His reference to the possibility of a pardon in the event of a guilty verdict suggests a willingness to consider community sentiments, but only within the confines of legal and constitutional processes. This stance is consistent with Soludo’s broader governance philosophy, which prioritizes transparency, accountability, and adherence to due process.
The case of the detained native doctors also highlights broader issues of youth unemployment and desperation, which may drive individuals to seek quick fixes through unorthodox means. The promise of instant wealth, as allegedly promoted by the native doctors, preys on the vulnerabilities of young people in a region where economic opportunities can be scarce. Soludo’s administration has sought to address this challenge through initiatives aimed at creating jobs, supporting small businesses, and improving access to education and skills training. By tackling the root causes of desperation, the government hopes to reduce the allure of fraudulent schemes and promote a culture of hard work and innovation.
As the judicial process unfolds, the case is likely to remain a focal point of discussion in Anambra. The outcome will not only determine the fate of Akwa Okuko, Eke Hit, and Onyeze Jesus but also set a precedent for how the state addresses similar cases in the future. For now, Governor Soludo has made it clear that the law must take its course, and any intervention on his part will depend on the conclusion of the legal proceedings. His measured response reflects a commitment to balancing community expectations with the principles of justice and governance.
In conclusion, Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s address in Oba underscores the complexities of addressing culturally sensitive issues within a legal framework. By emphasizing the importance of the judicial process, he has sought to maintain impartiality while acknowledging the concerns of the community. The detention of the native doctors serves as a reminder of the challenges facing Anambra, from combating fraudulent practices to addressing the socioeconomic factors that drive such behaviors. As the state awaits the outcome of the trial, Soludo’s leadership will continue to be tested in navigating these delicate issues, ensuring that justice is served while maintaining harmony within the community. The case also serves as a broader call to action for stakeholders to work together in promoting sustainable development and empowering the youth to pursue legitimate paths to success.