Popular native doctor Akwa Okuko arrested, detained in Anambra

Operatives of Agunechemba, the Anambra State security outfit, have arrested and detained renowned native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki.

The flamboyant spiritualist, known for his lavish lifestyle and promotion of “Oke Ite” (a controversial money ritual) on social media, was picked up from his base in Oba, Idemili South LGA, on Saturday evening.

His arrest was first announced on the official Anambra State X handle (formerly Twitter), stating:

“Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki n’Oba denies Oke Ite and has been detained for further investigation by the security agency.”

During his interrogation by Deputy Governor Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, Akwa Okuko denied involvement in money rituals, claiming:

“I have long stopped doing ‘Oke Ite’. That thing is not a charm. We just gave it the name ‘Oke Ite’ because we put it in a pot. In Igbo language, ‘Oke Ite’ means big pot.”

The deputy governor, referencing the newly passed Anambra Homeland Security Law, insisted on further investigation, stating:

“We need to take him to where he does these things. If he cannot prove it, he will have to go in for it.”

This arrest comes almost a year after Akwa Okuko was kidnapped in July 2023. Reports at the time suggested he secured his release after allegedly paying a ransom.

The Anambra State government has intensified crackdowns on criminal activities, particularly ritual practices and fraudulent spiritual claims.