Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo and Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki.
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has granted pardon to popular native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, and appointed him as an Ambassador for Youth Reformation in the state.
Nwangwu was among eight native doctors arrested last year over allegations bordering on the promotion of money rituals, quick-wealth practices and the alleged use of human parts for wealth acquisition.
Following his arrest and prosecution, Nwangwu entered into a plea bargain with the relevant authorities and was subsequently sentenced to 11 months imprisonment.
He was serving his sentence at the Nigeria Correctional Centre in Amawbia, Anambra State, where he was required to renounce his previous practices and embrace a new role focused on discouraging young people from engaging in practices associated with ritual wealth and other harmful forms of quick-wealth seeking.
The pardon was announced during a visit by Governor Soludo to the correctional centre, according to Dr. Nelson Omenugha, the governor’s Special Adviser on Youth Reformation.
Omenugha said the governor exercised his prerogative of mercy to grant Nwangwu his freedom after the native doctor accepted the conditions attached to the new responsibility.
According to him, Nwangwu accepted the terms of the reformation initiative and agreed to use his experience and influence to promote positive values among young people in Anambra State.
Omenugha commended Governor Soludo for what he described as a “hand of mercy” extended to Nwangwu, saying the decision would give the former inmate an opportunity to contribute to efforts aimed at steering young people away from criminality, ritual practices and the pursuit of wealth through harmful means.
He said Nwangwu’s appointment as an Ambassador for Youth Reformation would enable him to play a role in the state’s efforts to encourage young people to embrace legitimate means of livelihood and responsible living.
The development marks a significant shift in Nwangwu’s public role, from facing criminal prosecution over alleged promotion of ritual-related wealth practices to becoming part of the state’s youth reformation campaign.
Community Reporters understands that the appointment is expected to place emphasis on rehabilitation, behavioural change and the use of influential personalities to discourage young people from pursuing dangerous or unlawful means of acquiring wealth.
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