A human rights lawyer, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has called for the immediate release of Chief Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, who was arrested and detained by the Anambra State Government.
Akwa Okuko, a well-known native doctor, was reportedly taken to the office of the Deputy Governor, Gilbert Onyekachukwu Ibezim, where he was questioned before being put in a police van and taken away.
During the interrogation, Akwa Okuko stated that he had stopped preparing charms and rituals, known as “Okeite,” after the state government started cracking down on native doctors.
In a statement on Sunday, Ejiofor strongly condemned the arrest, calling it a violation of Akwa Okuko’s rights to freedom of worship and expression. He warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent in the state.
Ejiofor revealed that Nwangwu was invited for a meeting by the Deputy Governor but was detained instead. His arrest has sparked controversy, especially after a viral video surfaced showing him allegedly discussing the preparation of “Okeite.”
Ejiofor argued that even if Akwa Okuko made such statements, there was no legal basis for his detention. He cited sections of the Nigerian Constitution that protect freedom of religion and expression, insisting that the government had overstepped its authority.
He also raised concerns about the Agunechemba Security Outfit, recently launched by the Anambra government. Ejiofor warned against using the security outfit to target individuals unfairly, especially with the 2025 governorship election approaching.
Ejiofor has urged the Anambra State Government to release Akwa Okuko immediately, stating that his continued detention is illegal and could lead to further suppression of religious and personal freedoms in the state.
