Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has granted a pardon to popular native doctor Chidozie Nwanyi, better known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki.
Nwanyi was among eight native doctors arrested last year over alleged involvement in the promotion of money rituals, quick wealth and the use of human parts for ritual purposes.
He later entered into a plea bargain with the Anambra State Government and was sentenced to 11 months in prison.
Following the sentence, he was taken to the Nigeria Correctional Service facility in Amawbia, Anambra State.
As part of the conditions attached to the plea bargain, Nwanyi was required to renounce his fetish practices and commit himself to promoting youth reformation.
He reportedly accepted the conditions and had been serving his sentence before Governor Soludo granted him a pardon under the prerogative of mercy.
The governor also appointed him as an Ambassador for Youth Reformation in Anambra State.
Soludo’s decision was disclosed by his Special Adviser on Youth Reformation, Dr Nelson Omenugha, following the governor’s visit to the correctional facility.
Omenugha described the development as an example of the state’s approach to youth reformation, which he said goes beyond punishment to include correction and giving people another opportunity to contribute positively to society.
“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, “This is the heart of Youth Reformation: not just punishment, but correction, restoration, a new purpose, and A New Onye Anambra.”
Nwanyi’s pardon means he will leave the correctional facility before completing the full 11-month sentence originally imposed on him.
