Lawmaker Petitions Governor Soludo to Release Akwa Okuko, Pledges to Stand as His Surety

The Honourable member representing Idemili North and South federal constituency, Hon. Uche Okonkwo also known as Ebubeagu Ojoto, has in a heartfelt plea dated today October 6, 2025, urged Anambra State Governor Prof. Charles Soludo to release Chigozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki, on compassionate grounds. The native doctor from Oba in Idemili North Local Government Area has been in detention since February 2025, facing charges related to promoting get-rich-quick schemes, preparing charms for criminals, and misleading youths.

The lawmaker in his letter promised to stand as surety for Akwa Okuko should the governor grant him bail, emphasizing that such a decision would be viewed as a profound act of statesmanship and compassion. "It would reinforce the values of peace and forgiveness deeply cherished by Ndi Anambra," he wrote. Read the appeal letter in full below:

The appeal comes shortly after Soludo outlined strict conditions for any potential release during a recent campaign visit to Oba, where local youths knelt to plead for Akwa Okuko's freedom. The governor stressed that the matter is now under judicial review, stating his hands are tied until the trial has been concluded. "There is a process for me to follow, and there is a process for the court to follow too," Soludo remarked, adding that community leaders could approach him afterward for a possible pardon if convicted, but only after a speedy trial. He also accused the native doctor of scamming and deceiving youths, underscoring the government's commitment to due process amid ongoing security concerns.

Meanwhile political commentator Sir. Eneh Victor Chigozie has accused Soludo of misleading the Oba youths, arguing that the governor could intervene via the state prosecution to discontinue the case if he truly wishes.

Akwa Okuko, a celebrity traditional healer et al. whose real name is Chidozie Nwangwu, was arrested amid Governor Soludo's crackdown on fake native doctors under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025. The initiative aimed to curb rising insecurity, including ritual killings and kidnappings, by targeting those accused of aiding criminals with charms or luring youths into fraudulent wealth rituals.

He was arraigned in April 2025 alongside other native doctors on charges including conspiracy and kidnapping. Despite denying involvement in prohibited rituals like "Oke Ite" during interrogation, he remains in custody as the case proceeds through the courts. His detention has however sparked debates, with some viewing it as a necessary step against criminality, while others, including human rights advocates, criticized it as an infringement on traditional practices. His prior notoriety includes a 2023 kidnapping from which he was released after ransom, and rumors of ties to internet fraudsters and kidnappers.

This is a developing story, as more update(s) is being made available, this news article will be updated.