Anambra native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu sentenced to two years over aiding kidnapping and ritual offences, court cites remorse in reducing fines

Popular Anambra native doctor, Mr Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko, has been sentenced to two years in prison following his conviction on multiple ritual-related offences.

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Nwangwu was arrested in February 2025 by operatives of Agunechemba Security on allegations including aiding kidnapping and involvement in money rituals.

He was tried alongside colleagues Mr Okocha, also known as Onyeze Jesus, and Mr Ekene, also known as Eke Hit.

On Friday, Justice Jude Obiorah delivered judgment after Nwangwu pleaded guilty and entered a plea bargain with the state government.

The judge noted that his remorse warranted a reduced sentence.

Counts three through eight were upheld, resulting in a two-year term, while counts one, two, and three were struck out.

Justice Obiorah clarified that under the criminal code and the Anambra Homeland Law, individuals claiming powers to heal or make wealth through supernatural means are liable to imprisonment.

He fined Nwangwu N20 million on counts one, five, and eight, though the fines were waived due to his remorse.

Nwangwu, who has spent 13 months in detention, will serve the remaining 11 months at Awka Correctional Centre.

The judge ordered that his shrine in Oba be destroyed, he must cease all Okeite practices, publicly denounce such rituals on video, and act as an ambassador for youth reorientation, cautioning against seeking wealth through supernatural means.

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The sentence highlights the judiciary’s focus on both accountability and rehabilitation, aiming to deter ritual-related crimes while promoting societal reorientation.