Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has granted a pardon to popular native doctor Chidozie Nwanyi, widely known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, under the state’s prerogative of mercy.
Nwanyi was among eight native doctors arrested last year over allegations relating to the promotion of money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for ritual purposes.
Earlier this year, he entered into a plea bargain with the Anambra State Government and was subsequently sentenced to 11 months in custody at the Nigeria Correctional Facility in Amawbia, Anambra State.
As part of the conditions attached to the plea agreement, Nwanyi was required to renounce his fetish practices and commit to supporting efforts aimed at reforming young people.
He accepted the conditions and had been serving his sentence until Governor Soludo granted him a pardon during a visit to the correctional facility.
Following his release, the governor also appointed him as an Ambassador for Youth Reformation in Anambra State.
The development was disclosed by the governor’s Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha, who said Soludo made the decision while visiting the correctional facility in fulfilment of his official duties.
Omenugha expressed appreciation to the governor for extending what he described as a hand of mercy to Nwanyi and providing him with an opportunity to take on a new responsibility.
“Thank you, Mr Governor, Prof. Charles 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 that the initiative reflects the state government’s approach to youth reform, emphasising correction, restoration and giving individuals an opportunity to pursue a new purpose.
