Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has defended his administration’s actions against certain native doctors, stressing that the move is aimed at curbing criminal activities—not suppressing traditional religion.
Speaking during a media session in Awka, Soludo explained that his government fully respects indigenous beliefs and freedom of worship. However, he drew a clear line between genuine traditional practices and what he described as criminal acts carried out under the cover of spirituality.
According to him, some individuals posing as native doctors are allegedly aiding crimes such as kidnapping and armed robbery by providing charms and engaging in dangerous rituals, including those linked to wealth-seeking schemes and internet fraud.
The governor maintained that such activities have no connection to authentic traditional worship, which he described as rooted in moral values and service to humanity. He added that the government has a responsibility to step in whenever such practices threaten public safety.
As part of the ongoing crackdown, several suspects have been arrested and prosecuted. Among them is a Nnewi-based practitioner accused of conducting illegal rituals and allegedly supplying fake currency to fraudsters. Authorities also reported raiding a shrine linked to the suspect, though claims of supernatural manifestations could not be verified.
In a separate case, another self-proclaimed native doctor was recently sentenced by a High Court in Awka, with part of his jail term counting from the time already spent in detention.
Soludo reaffirmed that his administration will continue to uphold religious freedom while taking firm action against anyone using cultural or spiritual platforms to promote crime.