Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has pardoned convicted native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, and appointed him an Ambassador for Youth Reformation in the state.
The governor signed an order for Nwangwu’s immediate release on Friday, according to a statement by his Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha.
Nwangwu had been serving an 11-month prison sentence at the Nigeria Correctional Service facility in Amawbia after pleading guilty to charges relating to the practice of “Okeite” and other related offences.
He was convicted in February following a plea bargain at the Awka High Court, which also ordered the destruction of his shrine in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area.
Nwangwu was among eight native doctors arrested in 2025 following the enactment of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025.
He was accused of involvement in the promotion of money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for rituals.
As part of the conditions attached to his sentence, Nwangwu agreed to renounce his fetish practice and serve as an ambassador for youth reformation.
Omenugha said Soludo made the pardon announcement during a visit to the correctional facility in Amawbia.
The governor also pledged to work with Nwangwu for the betterment of Anambra State.
In announcing the pardon, Omenugha described the decision as part of the state government’s approach to youth reformation.
“Thank you, Mr Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, for graciously extending your hand of mercy to Chidozie Nwangwu (Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki) and giving him a new responsibility as Ambassador for Youth Reformation,” Omenugha said.
He added, “This is the heart of Youth Reformation: not just punishment, but correction, restoration, a new purpose and a new Onye Anambra.”
