Anambra Government Destroys Okija Shrine of Native Doctor Akwa Okuko
The Anambra State government has carried out the destruction of the Okija shrine belonging to the flamboyant native doctor, Chukwudozie Nwangwu, widely known as "Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki." This action followed a court order issued by Justice Jude Obiorah of the State High Court on Friday, February 27, 2026, after Nwangwu pleaded guilty to charges related to money rituals and preparing charms for criminals. The court sentenced him to eleven months imprisonment and mandated the shrine's demolition, along with a cessation of all Okeite practices.
Traditionalist Expresses Grave Concerns Over Shrine Burning
In an exclusive interview, Ezenwanyi Akajiofor, a female diviner from Umunbo in Ayamelum Local Government Area, condemned the method of destruction. While not disputing the legal actions against Akwa Okuko, she emphasized the dangers of burning sacred objects. "I've seen the consequences that greeted people who destroy their altars this way," she stated, drawing from decades of experience in traditional practices learned from her family.
Akajiofor explained that activated talismans and idols retain potency and should not be destroyed by fire. Instead, she advocated for abandoning such items in nature, where they gradually lose their power over time. "You can destroy them, but doing so by burning is traditionally dangerous," she warned, highlighting that her community forbids evil traditions like money rituals but respects proper handling of spiritual items.
Cleric Hails Destruction as Triumph of Light Over Darkness
Contrasting this view, Deacon Christopher Iloh, a pastor from God Alive Ministries in Nnewi, praised the government's action. He described it as "a triumph of light over darkness" and linked it to a broader cleansing of Anambra State. "Anambra's future is guaranteed. Daniel has come to judgement," he proclaimed, expressing optimism that Governor Charles Soludo's initiative would heal the land from pollution caused by criminal activities.
Iloh cited biblical examples where idol destruction led to land reformation and urged prayers for continued efforts. He believes this move will deter involvement with "new generation native doctors" and set the state on a path of progress.
Background and Related Developments
The shrine's destruction included burning items suspected to be talismans and fetish objects, as per court directives. Nwangwu was convicted for engaging in money rituals and aiding criminals through charms, with accusations of supporting kidnappers and armed robbers. In a related case, 26-year-old native doctor Chibunna Nwafor was arrested in Anambra for allegedly murdering a pregnant nurse in July 2025, with reports linking the crime to his shrine activities.
This incident has ignited a debate on the spiritual and societal implications of destroying sacred sites, reflecting diverse perspectives within the community.
