Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has granted a pardon to popular native doctor Chidozie Nwanyi, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, and appointed him Ambassador for Youth Reformation.
Nwanyi was among eight native doctors arrested last year over alleged involvement in promoting money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for ritual purposes.
He later entered a plea bargain with the Anambra State Government and was sentenced to 11 months in custody.
Akwa Okuko Renounced Fetish Practice
Following the plea bargain, Nwanyi was incarcerated at the Nigeria Correctional Facility in Amawbia, Anambra State.
As part of the conditions attached to his sentence, he was required to renounce his fetish practice and commit himself to becoming an ambassador for youth reformation.
The native doctor accepted the conditions and had been serving his sentence until Governor Soludo granted him a pardon under the prerogative of mercy.
New Role as Youth Ambassador
The development was disclosed by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha.
Omenugha said Soludo announced the pardon during a visit to the correctional facility.
He commended the governor for extending what he described as an opportunity for correction, restoration and a new purpose.
“Thank you, Mr Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, for graciously extending your hand of mercy to Chidozie Nwangwu (Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki) and giving him a new responsibility as Ambassador for Youth Reformation,” Omenugha said.
He added that the initiative reflects the philosophy of youth reformation.
“This is the heart of Youth Reformation: not just punishment, but correction, restoration, a new purpose and A New Onye Anambra,” he stated.
