Soludo-led Anambra Govt Seals Okija Shrine, Gives Reason

• Anambra state has ramped up its crackdown on spiritual rackets, sealing off a controversial shrine in Umuofor village, Okija, Ihiala LGA
• The shrine, reportedly run by native doctor Ekene Igboegbueze, was shut down after locals raised alarm over some alleged shady operations
• Prince Ken Emeakayi, special adviser to the governor on community security, said the matter fell under the state's homeland security laws

Legit.ng journalist Ridwan Adeola Yusuf has over 9 years of experience covering metro.

Awka, Anambra state - The Anambra state government has sealed a shrine in Umuofor village, Okija.

As reported by Vanguard on Wednesday evening, February 12, the action came about as the government intensified its crackdown on fake native doctors and criminal activities.

Okija shrine, located in Ihiala local government area, is allegedly operated by Ekene Igboegbueze, a self-proclaimed native doctor.

The embattled native doctor allegedly promises unsuspecting individuals super wealth.

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The Anambra state government decided to shut down the shrine on Wednesday, February 12, due to numerous complaints from Okija residents.

Ken Emeakayi, the special adviser to Governor Charles Soludo on community security, said:

“Igboegbueze’s business is illegal under Anambra state homeland security laws. All items found in the shrine will undergo forensic examination, and the results will determine further government action."

Youths advised against get-rich-quick mentality

In the same vein, Chinenye Ihenko, the director of operations for the Agunechemba security outfit, cautioned youths against patronising unscrupulous native doctors and fraudulent spiritual leaders.

“The activities of fake spiritual leaders are fueling a get-rich-quick mentality in the state. Our mandate is to sanitise Anambra, and we are committed to that. Anything contributing to the desecration of the state or aiding criminal activities will be eradicated. That, we can assure the people.”

Ihenko counselled the youths to engage in legitimate ventures to avoid issues with law enforcement agents.

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Meanwhile, Legit.ng gathered that the properties acquired through the illicit trade have also been sealed.

Read more Anambra state news:

• Man shares encounter with Anambra native doctor Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki: "we booked an appointment"
• Popular native doctor arrested for allegedly preparing ‘charms for 'Yahoo Boys', kidnappers’
• Labour Party chides Soludo over murder of popular lawmaker: “Anambra now at war”

Anambra lawmaker Justice Azuka found dead

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a member of the Anambra House of Assembly was confirmed to be dead

After his kidnapping in late 2024, lawmaker Justice Azuka was found dead on the popular 2nd Niger bridge.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for police in Anambra state, confirmed the upsetting development.

Proofreading by Nkem Ikeke, journalist and copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng