An Anambra State High Court in Awka on Friday, February 27, 2026, has handed a 12-year prison term to controversial native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, widely recognized by his street name, Akwaokuko Tiwara Aki.
Justice Jude Obiora delivered the verdict, convicting Nwangwu on six counts counts 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 each attracting a two-year sentence. Four other counts, numbered 1, 2, 9, and 10, were struck out. The sentences will run concurrently.
Taking into account the 13 months Nwangwu had already spent at the Agunechemba detention facility in Awka, Justice Obiora determined that the convict would only need to serve an additional 11 months this time at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Awka proper.
Beyond the prison term, the court issued a series of rehabilitative directives. Nwangwu’s shrine situated in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, is to be pulled down entirely, with the demolition process captured on video as proof of compliance.
The convict must also sign a formal undertaking to permanently abandon okite practices. Upon completing his sentence, he is required to take on the role of a youth ambassador specifically to counter the influence his actions may have had in promoting the idea of acquiring wealth through illegitimate means. Additionally, he is directed to use his social media presence to publicly declare that he has exited the practice.
Justice Obiora revealed that he had initially considered imposing fines of N20 million each on three additional counts, as an alternative to the six-year terms prescribed under the law. However, after observing what he described as genuine remorse from Nwangwu during his time in detention, the judge opted to waive those fines entirely.
The defence had lobbied for Nwangwu to remain at the Agunechemba facility to serve his sentence, but the court declined, citing the facility’s inadequate correctional infrastructure as a key reason for transferring him to the Awka Correctional Centre.
Two individuals linked to Nwangwu Onyebuchi Okocha, known as Onyeze Jesus, and Ekene Igboekweze, popularly called Eke Hit remain in custody as their cases continue.
