Three popular native doctors in Anambra State—Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki”, Onyebuchi Okocha, aka “Onyeze Jesus”, and Ekene Igboekweze, known as “Eke Hit”—have pleaded not guilty to charges of aiding criminals and preparing money rituals.
The men were arraigned on Friday before Justice Jude Obiorah of the Anambra State High Court, Awka, in a suit filed by the state government.
They were accused of preparing charms for suspected criminals and engaging in money rituals. Each defendant was docked separately and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following their pleas, Justice Obiorah adjourned the case to May 16, 2025, for further proceedings and to rule on their bail applications.
Speaking after the court session, counsel for “Onyeze Jesus”, Sir Bath Okafor-Ezedinobi, described the charges as “baseless” and urged the state government to withdraw them.
He also revealed that he had filed a fundamental rights suit at the Federal High Court in Awka and a bail application at the state High Court.
Kelvin Akunne, the Counsel to Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as “Akwa Okuko”, said he is concerned that his client has stayed too long in detention before arraignment and believes the success of the case is on the side of the defendant.
The native doctors were first arraigned on April 4, about a month after their arrest by operatives of the Anambra security outfit, Agunechemba, established under the state’s new Homeland Security law.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo had earlier declared a clampdown on native doctors following the launch of Operation Udogachi and other security efforts aimed at curbing ritual-related crimes in the state.
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