Soludo says crackdown on native doctors targets crime, not tradition
Charles Soludo, Governor of Anambra State, has clarified that his administration’s actions against some native doctors are aimed at curbing criminal activities, not suppressing traditional religion. During a media chat in Awka, Soludo emphasized that his government respects traditional worship but will not tolerate practices that foster crime. He stated that while freedom of religion is supported, it must not infringe on the rights and safety of others. The governor highlighted that some individuals exploit traditional practices for illegal activities, prompting the state’s intervention.
What we know
- Charles Soludo said the crackdown is focused on criminal native doctors, not on traditional religion itself.
- The state government has arrested and prosecuted several suspects, including Johnpaul Ezenagu (“Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya”) for alleged illegal rituals and supplying counterfeit currency.
- Authorities raided Ezenagu’s residence in Nnewi, where he claimed to summon a water goddess, but no evidence was found.
- Another native doctor, Chidozie Nwangwu (“Akwa Okuku Tiwara Aki n’Oba”), was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment in February after his arrest last year.
- Soludo stressed that genuine traditional medicine is not being targeted, only those using it as cover for criminal acts.
