Security personnel from the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, have arrested and detained well-known native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly called Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki.
The spiritualist, famous for flaunting his wealth on social media, had gained attention for promoting Oke Ite—a ritual he claimed could bring unlimited riches.
His arrest was first announced on the official Anambra State X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday.
The post stated: “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki n’Oba denies Oke Ite and has been detained for further investigation by the security agency.”
According to sources, security operatives apprehended him at his residence in Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, and took him to the office of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, for questioning.
A video circulating online shows the deputy governor interrogating him, during which Akwa Okuko denied involvement in Oke Ite.
He explained, “I stopped doing Oke Ite a long time ago. It is not a charm; we only called it that because we put it in a pot. In Igbo, ‘Oke Ite’ simply means a big pot.”
In the same footage, Ibezim referenced the newly enacted Anambra Homeland Security Law, stressing the need for a thorough investigation.
Addressing security officials, he stated: “You have heard him. We need to verify his claims and investigate where he carries out these activities. If he cannot provide proof, he will face the consequences.”
This development comes nearly a year after Akwa Okuko was kidnapped in July 2023. Reports suggested he secured his freedom after several days in captivity, allegedly paying a ransom for his release.