There is palpable fear and panic in Anambra State over the fate of patrons and owners of Okeite at the shrine of popular native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu, a.k.a “Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki”, in Oba town following the judgment of the High Court in the State.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the Anambra State High Court had ordered that both the Okeite and the shrine be destroyed after the Court convicted and sentenced Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki to terms of imprisonment.
The patrons of the deadly shrine and the owners of the Okeite were said to be apprehensive on what may befell them after the shrine and Okeite were destroyed following the order of the Court.
According to the indigenes, since Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki was not given the opportunity to neutralize the Okeite before the destruction, it may have negative consequences on the owners. Besides, certain rituals should have been performed by the chief priest before the shrine will be destroyed.
The indigenes explained that the patrons of the Okeite at the shrine usually perform regular rituals for its efficacy for power and wealth. And they believe that before the Okeite will be destroyed, the chief priest, “Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki” was supposed to have performed disengagement rituals before the destruction which was not the case.
“Now, it has been destroyed without performing the rituals. There will be consequences including likely mental illness and misfortunes associated with the Okeite, which will befall the patrons because it is only the chief priest that will handle the situation” an indigene stated.
The Anambra State Government carried out the demolition following a High Court judgment delivered on Friday in Awka, which authorized the state to take decisive steps regarding the property.
The demolition has stirred conversations across Anambra State and beyond, especially given the prominence of the native doctor in the region.
The chief priest was known for his flamboyant lifestyle and strong social media presence. He had built a reputation that attracted followers from different parts of the country. Many patrons visited the shrine and he prepared the Okeite, which was kept in the shrine for regular rituals before the State Government arrested and charged him before the Court.
In court yesterday, the high-profile traditionalist pleaded guilty to the offence of administering Okeite charms to people. Under a plea bargain, he got a lesser punishment. He was convicted by the presiding judge, Hon. Justice Jude Obiora, at the Anambra State High Court in Awka, marking a significant milestone in the state’s fight against superstition and organized crime.