Anambra State Government has confirmed the detention of three native doctors suspected of engaging in nefarious activities, including promoting a dangerous get-rich-quick scheme linked to a controversial charm known as “Okeite.” The move comes as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to crack down on criminal elements and uphold the Anambra Homeland Security Law of 2025.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, following a State Executive Council meeting on Monday. Mefor revealed that the state government is currently documenting practitioners of traditional medicine, but it is not granting official certificates or allowing them to register as licensed practitioners. He emphasized that the investigation into the arrested individuals will be thorough, with those found guilty facing legal consequences.
The three native doctors detained are identified as Chidozie Nwangwu, also known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki from Oba; Eke Hit from Okija; and Onyebuchi Okocha, known as Onyeze Jesus, from Nkpor. All three are suspected of being involved in the “Okeite” ritualistic practices, which have been linked to fraudulent schemes promising wealth and power.
In a related development, the state government has sealed the “Children of the Light Anointing Ministry,” a popular church led by Onyeze Jesus. The church, located in Amafor village, Nkpor, was shut down by operatives of Anambra’s security outfit, Agunechemba, during a Sunday raid. The church’s closure follows allegations that it was involved in the controversial “Okeite” charm, with various substances and materials linked to the practice found on the premises.
This marks the third significant crackdown on individuals and organizations involved in “get-rich-quick” spiritual practices in Anambra. Previous raids have led to the arrest and sealing of shrines associated with the “Okeite” charm, a concoction made from human and animal body parts, herbs, and mud, believed to be used in money rituals.
Ken Emeakayi, the Special Adviser on Community Security to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, led the operation to close the church. He confirmed that the action was taken after public complaints and a video surfaced in which Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha allegedly admitted to practicing “Okeite” and other dubious rituals. Emeakayi stated that forensic tests would be conducted on the liquid substances found at the ministry, and samples from River Bethsaida, where the spiritualist is accused of performing ritual baths, would also be analyzed for potential health risks.
While the Anambra government respects the right to religious practice, it has made it clear that it will not tolerate fraudulent activities disguised as spiritual teachings. The authorities are determined to eradicate any practices that exploit vulnerable individuals, and they are committed to ensuring public safety and the integrity of spiritual practices within the state.
The crackdown highlights the government’s dedication to combating ritualistic practices that prey on the unsuspecting, and it signals a firm stance against those who perpetuate fraudulent schemes in the name of religion. As investigations continue, the people of Anambra are being urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.