An Anambra State High Court has sentenced popular native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, to two years’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to charges bordering on aiding and abetting kidnapping and involvement in unlawful ritual practices.
The judgment was delivered by Justice Jude Obiorah following a plea bargain agreement entered into between the defendant and the Anambra State Government.
Although the court handed down a two-year sentence, Nwangwu had already spent about 13 months in custody since his arrest in February 2025. As a result, he is expected to serve the remaining 11 months of his term at the correctional facility.
The court also waived fines reportedly amounting to ₦60 million, citing his expression of remorse. However, it ordered the demolition of his shrine located in Oba community and barred him from further engaging in ritual or spiritual practices associated with his activities.
In addition, the court directed that upon completion of his sentence, he would serve as an ambassador for youth reorientation, aimed at discouraging young people from pursuing illicit wealth through ritual and criminal means.
The conviction marks a significant development in the state’s crackdown on criminal activities linked to ritual practices and kidnapping.
