In a recent statement, the Anambra State Government, under Governor Chukwuma Soludo, has clarified its position regarding native doctors in the state. Contrary to circulating rumors, Governor Soludo has not declared a blanket ban on all native doctors. Instead, the government’s focus is on eradicating fraudulent practitioners who engage in criminal activities, such as preparing charms for kidnappers and armed robbers. This initiative aims to preserve the integrity of genuine traditional medicine and protect the cultural heritage of the Igbo people.
The government’s crackdown has led to notable actions, including the recent arrest of a popular native doctor, Chukwudozie Nwangwu, popularly known as ‘Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki.’ Nwangwu was apprehended by the state’s security outfit, Agunechemba, following allegations of his involvement in preparing illicit charms, specifically a substance referred to as ‘Okeite.’ During an interrogation with Deputy Governor Gilbert Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Nwangwu denied ongoing involvement in such practices, stating that he had ceased these activities upon learning of the government’s stance.
The arrest has sparked a debate on religious and personal freedoms. Human rights lawyer Ifeanyi Ejiofor criticized the government’s actions, asserting that Nwangwu’s detention violates constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression. Ejiofor emphasized that unless concrete evidence links Nwangwu to criminal activities, his continued detention sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of religious and expressive freedoms in the state.
Governor Soludo’s administration maintains that the crackdown is not an attack on traditional medicine or genuine practitioners. The objective is to identify and prosecute those exploiting spiritual practices for criminal purposes, thereby misleading the youth and undermining societal values. The government calls upon the public to collaborate in exposing such individuals to foster a society rooted in integrity, morality, and respect for human life.
This development highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural practices and enforcing laws against activities that may endanger public safety. As the situation unfolds, it underscores the importance of ensuring that actions taken against individuals are backed by substantial evidence to uphold justice and protect fundamental human rights.
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