Court Sentences Anambra Native Doctor "Eke Hit" to Six Years in Prison

The Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka has sentenced popular native doctor Ekene Igboekweze, widely known as "Eke Hit", to six years' imprisonment.

Justice Jude Obiorah convicted Mr Igboekweze on two of the six counts against him and imposed a six-year term on each count, to run concurrently.

Mr Igboekweze, from Umuofor Village in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, rose to prominence on social media by advertising charms purportedly used for wealth and other purposes.

Operatives of the Anambra State security outfit, Agunechemba, arrested him in February 2025 along with two other native doctors, following the enactment of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025.

The three men were arraigned in April 2025 on charges including conspiracy, kidnapping, preparing protective charms for criminals and money rituals.

In his defence, Mr Igboekweze told the court that he was a registered herbalist and a member of the Odinani Okija Traditional Association. He said his practice involved only herbs and roots.

In his judgement, Justice Obiorah held that the prosecution had proved counts one and two beyond reasonable doubt, while count three was resolved in favour of the defendant.

Before sentencing, Igboekweze pleaded for forgiveness and asked the court to consider his family, particularly his newborn triplets whom he said he had not yet seen because of his detention.

His counsel, Chief Emmanuel Egbunonu, said the court had shown consideration by waiving the N40m fine attached to the two convictions.

Government counsel Fabian Okeke described the judgement as a measure aimed at protecting society from practices he said could undermine human creativity and the pursuit of legitimate economic activities.

In a related development, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has granted a state pardon to popular native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, known as "Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki", who was serving an 11-month prison term following a High Court judgement in Awka. The court had also ordered the demolition of his shrine.

Governor Soludo announced the pardon during a visit to the Correctional Centre in Amawbia, saying it followed Mr Nwangwu's demonstrated signs of reformation and willingness to contribute positively to society.

He said the decision was part of his administration's commitment to rehabilitating and reintegrating repentant individuals into society, while improving the welfare of inmates.

The governor also appointed Mr Nwangwu Ambassador for Youth Reformation in Anambra State, tasking him with discouraging young people from crime, promoting responsible living and encouraging productive ventures.

As part of the exercise, Governor Soludo also inspected the custodial facility at Waterside, Onitsha.