The Agunechemba Security Squad has taken decisive action against a shrine located in Okija Community, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. The security outfit sealed off the shrine and confiscated properties belonging to the native doctor responsible for its operation. Reports indicate that these assets were acquired through the performance of illegal money-making rituals known as Okey-Ite, often conducted for internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as Yahoo boys. These rituals were allegedly performed under the guise of Awele, a so-called “destiny helper” believed to bring wealth through supernatural means.
The operation was led by Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, the Special Adviser to Governor Charles Soludo on Community Security, who is also an indigene of Okija. The shrine, situated in Umuofor village, was allegedly run by a priest identified as Ekene Igboegbueze, who was arrested during the raid by security operatives.
Emeakayi, while speaking on the development, explained that the state government ordered the sealing of the shrine following multiple complaints from residents of Okija about the illicit activities being carried out there. Additionally, an online video surfaced in which the suspect openly admitted to conducting Okey-Ite, Yahoo Plus, and Awele rituals for individuals. These activities, according to Emeakayi, violate Anambra State Homeland Security Laws.
The government has also taken possession of all properties suspected to have been acquired with proceeds from these illegal practices. Furthermore, items recovered from the shrine will undergo forensic testing, and the results will determine the next course of action against the suspect.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Chinenye Ihenko, the Director of Operations for Agunechemba Security Outfit, expressed concern over the growing influence of fraudulent native doctors and self-proclaimed pastors. He warned that their deceptive practices are fueling the “get-rich-quick” mentality among the youth. He urged young people to stop patronizing such individuals, emphasizing that they only exploit people’s desperation for wealth.
This incident follows a similar case last week when another native doctor, Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwala Aki, was arrested by the security outfit. His arrest came after a viral video in which he boasted that while other native doctors had fled Anambra, he remained the only one still operating.
In an effort to curb criminal activities associated with traditional spiritual practices, the Anambra State Government had previously mandated that all native doctors register with the state. This initiative aims to profile their specific areas of expertise and distinguish genuine practitioners from those engaging in criminal rituals for fraudsters and other criminals.