Anambra State was shaken on Saturday following the arrest of a popular native doctor, Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki n’Oba, by the Agunechemba vigilante operatives in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.
The state government confirmed the arrest through a post on its New Media handle on Facebook. The statement read, “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki n’Oba denies Okeite and has been detained for further investigation by the security agency.”
Investigation and Interrogation
Sources revealed that the native doctor was taken to the office of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, for questioning. In a video circulating on social media, Dr. Ibezim is seen interrogating the celebrity traditionalist over allegations related to the practice of “Oke Ite.”
Speaking during the interrogation, Akwa Okuko denied his involvement in the controversial practice.
“I have long stopped doing ‘Oke Ite’. That thing is not a charm. We just gave it the name ‘Oke Ite’ because we put it in a pot,” he asserted.
In response, Deputy Governor Ibezim stated, “We need to take him to where he does these things. We will investigate him, and of course, we need to know where he does these things.”
Controversial History
Akwa Okuko has been in the spotlight for several incidents. In July 2023, he was reportedly kidnapped by gunmen and held captive for days before his release, allegedly facilitated by a ransom payment.
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There are also widespread allegations linking him to the preparation of charms for criminals, including kidnappers posing as internet fraudsters who have terrorized the state.
Government’s Crackdown
In a bid to curb rising criminal activities, Governor Charles Soludo-led administration introduced the Anambra State Homeland Security Law in 2025. This stringent law targets native doctors who prepare or administer charms such as the infamous ‘Odeshi,’ ‘Okeite,’ and ‘Mkpu Egbe.’ The law imposes severe penalties to deter such practices.
As investigations continue, residents await further updates on the case and the government’s efforts to combat crime in Anambra State.