Akwa Okuko Regains Freedom As Soludo Appoints Him Youth Ambassador

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has pardoned jailed native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, and appointed him Ambassador for Youth Reformation.

Soludo signed the release order on Friday during a visit to the Awka Correctional Centre, where Nwangwu was serving an 11-month prison sentence.

Nwangwu was convicted in February following a plea bargain at the Awka High Court after pleading guilty to charges related to the practice of Okeite and other offences. The court also ordered the demolition of his shrine in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.

He was among eight native doctors arrested in 2025 following the enactment of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law. He was charged with promoting money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for rituals.

As part of the conditions for his release, Nwangwu renounced his fetish practice and agreed to serve as an ambassador for youth reformation.

The governor’s Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha, disclosed the development in a statement on Friday.

He said the appointment reflected the government’s approach to youth reformation through “correction, restoration, a new purpose and a new Onye Anambra.”

Soludo also pledged to work with Nwangwu for the betterment of the state.