The Anambra State Government has demolished the shrine of a popular native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, following his conviction by a court in Awka.
The demolition came after the Anambra State High Court sentenced Nwangwu to 11 months’ imprisonment for his involvement in ritual practices popularly referred to as “Oke Ite” and other related offences.
Security operatives attached to Agunechemba Security Outfit carried out the operation at the native doctor’s expansive shrine located in Oba, in Idemili South Local Government Area.
The exercise was supervised by Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security.
During the operation, the shrine—filled with native pots known as Oke Ite, photographs of individuals, moulded images, clothes and other fetish objects—was dismantled piece by piece. The recovered items were later set ablaze.
Speaking during the exercise, Emeakayi said the action was in line with the Soludo administration’s resolve to rid Anambra communities of criminal and ritual-related activities.
“This demolition is a clear message that Anambra State will not tolerate any form of criminality or practices that threaten public safety and morality,” he said. “The government is committed to enforcing the law and protecting lives.”
Residents of Oba who witnessed the exercise described it as a strong signal that the state government is serious about tackling ritual practices and insecurity across communities.
