Anambra State’s security agency, Agunechemba, has detained Chidozie Nwangwu, a self-proclaimed spiritualist better known as Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki, following allegations of promoting fraudulent wealth rituals.
The arrest, confirmed by the state government’s official social media channels on Saturday, marks a significant development in the state’s crackdown on activities deemed threatening to public order.
Nwangwu rose to prominence through social media, where he showcased an opulent lifestyle and endorsed Oke Ite – a ritual he claimed could generate boundless wealth.
His content attracted a substantial youth following, sparking debates about the ethical implications of promoting unverified spiritual practices.
However, his online presence dwindled after the launch of Agunechemba, a state-backed security initiative aimed at curbing crime and enforcing the Anambra Homeland Security Law.
Arrest and Interrogation
According to eyewitness reports, Agunechemba operatives apprehended Nwangwu at his residence in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, on Saturday evening.
He was swiftly transported to the office of Deputy Governor Dr. Onyeka Ibezim for questioning.
A widely circulated video depicts Ibezim interrogating the spiritualist, who denied ongoing involvement with Oke Ite.
“I stopped that practice long ago. Oke Ite isn’t a charm – it’s just a name we used because the ritual involved a large pot,” Nwangwu asserted during the exchange.
Deputy Governor Ibezim, referencing Sections 8 and 12 of the Anambra Homeland Security Law, stressed the necessity of evidence to validate Nwangwu’s claims.
“If he cannot substantiate his statements, he will face legal consequences,” Ibezim declared, directing security personnel to investigate the suspect’s alleged ritual sites.
Previous Controversies
This incident follows Nwangwu’s abduction in July 2023, during which he reportedly paid a ransom for his release. While the motives behind the kidnapping remain unclear, the event fueled speculation about his connections to criminal networks.
The Anambra government has not confirmed whether the two incidents are linked but has reiterated its commitment to prosecuting individuals who exploit cultural practices for personal gain.
Legal experts, including human rights lawyer Emeka Ugwuonye, highlight the broader implications of this case.
“The enforcement of the Homeland Security Law signals a shift toward accountability, particularly for public figures whose actions could incite societal harm,” Ugwuonye noted in a recent interview with The Guardian Nigeria*.
Crackdown
Anambra’s proactive measures reflect a growing trend across Southern Nigeria, where authorities are increasingly targeting fraudulent spiritual practices.
For instance, a 2022 report by the CLEEN Foundation revealed that 43% of Nigerians view unregulated spiritualists as a societal risk, citing concerns about exploitation and misinformation.
As investigations continue, Agunechemba’s handling of Nwangwu’s case will likely set a precedent for similar operations. Residents and observers await further updates, with many hoping the outcome will reinforce public trust in the state’s governance and security frameworks.