Rituals, fraud, and more: Billionaire herbalist Akwa Okoku charged with five offenses

• Akwa Okoku has faced a relentless storm since his arrest, stands trial over grave accusations that have ignited widespread chatter.
• The weight of the alleged crimes against him has not only set social media abuzz but also underscored the Anambra Government’s unyielding crackdown on native doctors in the state.

Popular Anambra native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okoku, faces a litany of grave allegations, including ritual practices, conspiracy to rob, and aiding internet fraudsters, often referred to as Yahoo boys.

The Self-proclaimed Billionaire’s arrest on Sunday, February 16, set the stage for a dramatic court appearance on Tuesday, February 25, at the Anambra State High Court, where Justice Onochie M. Anyachebelu unveiled the five charges against him.

The charges, brought by the Anambra State government in collaboration with the state’s Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), paint a chilling portrait of Nwangwu’s alleged dealings.

They include involvement in money rituals, forging alliances with drug dealers, crafting charms for kidnappers and armed robbers within and beyond state lines, offering support to internet fraudsters in their illicit operations, and performing ritualistic charms for clients with hidden motives.

Beyond the courtroom, the Anambra State government has signaled its intent to seize Nwangwu’s assets, target his hotel, luxury vehicles, and other properties.

With the case adjourned for further hearing, the unfolding legal battle promises to unearth more layers of this unsettling saga.

This development follows the Anambra State government’s intensified crackdown on fraudulent spiritual rackets, which recently led to the closure of a controversial shrine in Umuofor village, Okija, Ihiala LGA.

The shrine, allegedly operated by self-proclaimed native doctor Ekene Igboegbueze, was shut down after concerned locals voiced suspicions about its questionable activities.

Prince Ken Emeakayi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, confirmed the action, emphasized that it falls squarely under Anambra State Homeland Security Laws.