By George Omagbemi
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has granted pardon to convicted native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, and appointed him Ambassador for Youth Reformation in the state.
Soludo announced the pardon during a visit to the Amawbia Correctional Centre in Anambra State, where Nwangwu was serving his prison sentence. The governor signed the necessary release documents, paving the way for his immediate release.
Nwangwu was convicted by the High Court sitting in Awka following proceedings connected to allegations involving the practice of “Oke-Ite” and the promotion of quick-wealth and ritual practices. The court also ordered the demolition of his shrine in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.
He was among several native doctors arrested during the state government’s crackdown on activities it said were associated with money rituals, quick-wealth schemes and the use of human parts for ritual purposes.
As part of the rehabilitation process, Nwangwu agreed to renounce Oke-Ite and related fetish practices and support the government’s youth-reformation campaign.
Soludo, exercising his prerogative of mercy, ended Nwangwu’s remaining custodial term and gave him a new responsibility focused on youth reformation. The governor also pledged to work with him for the development of Anambra State.
The governor’s Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha, described the pardon as an example of rehabilitation, stressing that youth reformation should involve correction, restoration and giving people a new purpose.
The development has generated public attention because Nwangwu has moved from serving a criminal sentence to receiving a government-backed role intended to encourage young people to reject harmful practices and pursue more productive paths.
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