Operatives of Anambra State’s security outfit, Agunechemba, have arrested and detained renowned native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki.
The spiritualist, famous for his lavish social media presence, has notably remained silent since the launch of Agunechemba.
Akwa Okuko’s fame grew largely due to his controversial promotion of “Oke Ite,” a money ritual he claimed could bring immense wealth. This ritual garnered significant attention, particularly among young people.
The news of his arrest was first shared on Anambra State’s official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday. The post stated: “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki n’Oba denies Oke Ite and has been detained for further investigation by the security agency.”
According to reports, security operatives apprehended him at his residence in Oba, Idemili South LGA, on Saturday evening before taking him to the office of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, for questioning.
A video circulating online shows the deputy governor questioning Akwa Okuko. During the session, the native doctor denied any involvement with Oke Ite, claiming “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. In Igbo, ‘Oke Ite’ means big pot.”
In the same video, Ibezim referenced sections of the recently passed Anambra Homeland Security Law, emphasizing the need for evidence to support Akwa Okuko’s statements.
Addressing the security operatives present, he stated: “You’ve heard him. We need to take him to where these activities take place. We will investigate him thoroughly, and if he cannot provide proof, he will face consequences.”
This arrest follows an incident nearly a year ago in July 2023, when Akwa Okuko was kidnapped. Reports suggest he was released after spending several days in captivity and allegedly paying a ransom