Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has reeled out specific conditions for the release of a detained traditional healer, Chigozie Nwangwu, popularly known as ‘Akwa Okuko’.
During a recent political campaign, Governor Soludo was approached by youths from Oba in the Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, which is the native doctor’s hometown, and demanded his release, asserting that he was a prominent figure and role model within their community.
However, a resolute Soludo set conditions for his release.
Soludo expressed, “You’re requesting the release of Akwa Okuko, and I want to note that we have forgiven those who trespassed. I understand your intention; however, I wish it were within my power to forgive and facilitate his release.”
“What I can say is that there is a procedure in place. Both the court and I have specific protocols to adhere to, and currently we are involved in the process designated for the court.”
“Akwa Okuko isn’t the only one being detained. As you know, I speak plainly. While someone claimed he is a beloved son of yours, I must reveal that the individual in question led our youth astray. I’m here in Oba to share this with you: He misled and defrauded people, and it’s important for us to acknowledge this truth.”
“You can only request forgiveness, and we may consider it, after you have admitted the truth and accepted it.”
“What he’s doing doesn’t align with what Oba represents. Our goal is to restore and uplift Oba, returning it to its former glory. Oba values hard work, not quick wealth.”
“You have a responsibility to help rid society of drugs, kidnapping, and the allure of quick money. Our goal is to purify Oba by ensuring that anyone found engaging in illegal activities faces arrest. Those arrested are currently undergoing court trials. Once we’ve handed them over to law enforcement authorities, our involvement ends there. The judicial process will determine their fate—if they’re acquitted, they’ll be released; if convicted, they will face sentencing.”
“You should be asking for a pardon. However, a pardon cannot be granted while the court proceedings are still ongoing, so we must allow the legal process to unfold without interference. If I were to get involved now, it would amount to interfering with the judicial process. Therefore, at this moment, we’ll let the court do its job.”
“It wouldn’t be fair for me to grant him a pardon without due process. What if the court later finds him not guilty? You need to understand these considerations. Instead, we should focus on hoping for a speedy trial. If he is found guilty and convicted, then your leaders can meet with me afterward at the Light House where we’ll discuss it further and consider granting a pardon if necessary.”
Awka Okuko, a wealthy traditional healer, was arrested in February, 2025, for allegedly promoting get-rich-quick schemes. He is accused of creating charms for criminals and misleading young people into thinking that money rituals can bring wealth without the need for hard work.
Two other native doctors, Eke Hit from Okija and Onyeze Jesus, were also arrested.
Since then, the trio has been standing trial and are currently detained.