Soludo pardons jailed native doctor, names him youth ambassador

Abimbola Joseph

Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has pardoned jailed native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, and appointed him Ambassador for Youth Reformation.

Soludo signed the release order on Friday during a visit to the correctional facility in Amawbia, Anambra State, where Nwangwu had been serving an 11-month prison sentence.

Nwangwu was convicted by the Awka High Court in February after pleading guilty to charges relating to the practice of “Okeite” and other related offences under a plea-bargain arrangement.

The court also ordered the destruction of his shrine in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.

Nwangwu was among eight native doctors arrested in 2025 following the enactment of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law. He was charged with alleged involvement in promoting money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for rituals.

As part of the terms of his sentence, Nwangwu renounced his fetish practice and agreed to support youth reformation efforts.

He had been serving his sentence until Soludo exercised the prerogative of mercy to secure his release and appoint him Ambassador for Youth Reformation.

The governor also pledged to work with Nwangwu on initiatives aimed at redirecting young people and contributing to the development of the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Reformation, Nelson Omenugha, announced the pardon and appointment in a statement on Friday.

Omenugha described the governor’s action as an example of the administration’s approach to youth reformation, which he said should go beyond punishment to include correction, restoration and a renewed sense of purpose.

He thanked Soludo for extending what he called a “hand of mercy” to Nwangwu and entrusting him with a new responsibility. “This is the heart of Youth Reformation: not just punishment, but correction, restoration, a new purpose and a new Onye Anambra,” Omenugha said.