- He noted that while freedom of worship is guaranteed, it should not be used as a cover for illegal acts
- He added that practices such as “Ego Mbute,” “Oke-Ite,” and “Yahoo Plus” are contributing to a resurgence of harmful traditions
- The governor stressed that these acts are not part of genuine traditional religion and must be addressed decisively
Governor Charles Soludo has explained his administration’s recent crackdown on certain native doctors in Anambra State, stating that the move is aimed at curbing criminal activities disguised as traditional worship.
Speaking during a media interaction in Awka, Eko Hot Blog reports that the governor clarified that his government respects traditional religion but draws a clear line when such practices are used to support crime.
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He noted that while freedom of worship is guaranteed, it should not be used as a cover for illegal acts. According to him, the state will intervene whenever religious practices begin to promote criminal behavior.
Soludo alleged that some individuals operating as native doctors assist criminals by preparing charms for kidnappers and armed robbers, and may also be involved in harmful rituals, including those linked to wealth and protection.
He added that practices such as “Ego Mbute,” “Oke-Ite,” and “Yahoo Plus” are contributing to a resurgence of harmful traditions that undermine the values of society.
The governor stressed that these acts are not part of genuine traditional religion and must be addressed decisively.
As part of the enforcement efforts, authorities have arrested and prosecuted several suspects. One of them, Johnpaul Ezenagu, popularly known as “Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya,” was apprehended in Nnewi over allegations of conducting illegal rituals and supplying fake currency to internet fraudsters.
Security operatives reportedly searched his residence and were led to a shrine where the alleged activities took place. Attempts to verify his claims of supernatural abilities, including summoning a water deity, yielded no results.
In a separate case, another self-proclaimed native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as “Akwa Okuku Tiwara Aki n’Oba,” was sentenced by a High Court in Awka to two years in prison earlier this year.
Part of his sentence was counted alongside the time he had already spent in detention.
The state government maintains that the ongoing actions are necessary to separate legitimate traditional practices from criminal elements and to improve security across the state.
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