Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has outlined conditions under which detained native doctor, Chigozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko, could be released.
Nwangwu, a wealthy native doctor from Oba in Idemili South Local Government Area, was arrested in February alongside two others — Eke Hit from Okija and Onyeze Jesus from Nkpor. The trio are standing trial on allegations of promoting get-rich-quick practices, preparing charms for criminals, and misleading youths with promises of wealth without hard work.
During a campaign rally at Oba community on Thursday, youths demanded the release of Nwangwu, describing him as a “shining star” of the area. Responding, Soludo insisted that the matter was before the court and could not be decided by executive intervention.
“There is a process for me to follow, and there is a process for the court to follow,” Soludo said. “They are undergoing trial. If acquitted, he will go home. If convicted, then discussions on pardon can take place.”
The governor stressed that Nwangwu’s activities had “derailed the youths” and were not reflective of Oba’s values of hard work. He urged residents to support efforts to cleanse the community of drugs, kidnapping, and the culture of fast money.
Soludo added that a possible pardon could only be considered after the judicial process is concluded. “What we should be praying for is speedy trial,” he said, assuring that if found guilty and convicted, community leaders could later meet with him to discuss clemency.
