Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has granted a pardon to Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, paving the way for his immediate release from correctional custody.
Governor Soludo announced the pardon on Friday, September 18, 2026, during an inspection visit to the Correctional Centre in Amawbia, Anambra State. The development marks a major turn in the case involving the controversial native doctor, who had been serving a prison sentence following his conviction by the High Court in Awka.
Nwangwu was previously sentenced to two years in prison after proceedings arising from allegations linked to ritual practices and the preparation of charms for criminals. The court subsequently directed that part of his sentence run concurrently with time already spent in custody, leaving about 11 months outstanding at the time of the pardon.
As part of the court’s earlier orders, Nwangwu was also directed to renounce Oke-ite and related charm practices. The court further stipulated that, after serving his sentence, he would contribute to youth reorientation efforts and publicly discourage young people from engaging in such practices.
Governor Soludo’s latest decision effectively brings Nwangwu’s incarceration to an end. The governor also indicated a willingness to work with him toward initiatives that could contribute to the welfare and development of Anambra State.
The pardon was announced as part of the governor’s broader visit to custodial facilities in the state, where he also inspected the Waterside Correctional Facility in Onitsha. Soludo said the exercise was focused not only on the pardon but also on the welfare and wellbeing of inmates.
The case of Akwa Okuko had attracted considerable public attention since his arrest in February 2025. His conviction formed part of the Anambra State Government’s wider campaign against activities it says contribute to criminality, fraudulent practices and the exploitation of young people.
With the governor’s pardon now announced, attention is expected to shift to Nwangwu’s next steps and the nature of any collaboration between him and the state government following his release.
