Court Jails Native Doctor ‘Akwa Okuko’ for Ritual-Related Fraud, Orders Shrine Demolition

An Anambra State High Court has sentenced popular native doctor, Chukwudozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okuko, to 11 months’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to charges linked to ritual practices and obtaining money under false pretences.

Delivering judgment on Friday, the court convicted Nwangwu on three counts bordering on money ritual claims and fraudulent acquisition of wealth. The judge ordered that the prison terms run concurrently.

₦800,000 Ritual Promise

Nwangwu was arrested in 2025 after he allegedly collected ₦800,000 from a victim, promising to make him a millionaire within months through ritual means.

According to the prosecution, the convict claimed he would use the money to perform rituals that would guarantee sudden wealth. However, investigations revealed the claims to be fraudulent.

The court ordered Nwangwu to refund the ₦800,000 to the victim or face an additional three-year jail term.

Alleged Support for Criminal Elements

Beyond the fraud charge, Nwangwu was also accused of preparing charms and talismans allegedly used by kidnappers and armed robbers, thereby aiding criminal activities.

In addition to the custodial sentence, the trial judge ordered the demolition of his “Oba Shrine” and directed him to cease all forms of Okeite practice.

The court further ruled that upon completion of his sentence at the Awka Correctional Centre, Nwangwu must publicly denounce Okeite and related charm practices.

He was also mandated to serve as an ambassador for youth re-orientation, aimed at discouraging young people from engaging in ritual-related and fraudulent activities.