Fear grips Anambra community over arrest of unregistered native doctors
Tension has risen among native doctors and traditional medicine practitioners in Ojoto, Anambra State, following the arrest of uncertified spiritualists accused of performing unauthorized rituals in the community.
The incident occurred on Monday, January 6, when unidentified individuals defied an order from the community’s traditional ruler, Igwe Gerald Mbamalu, and conducted rituals at sacred sites.
Their actions were disrupted when police operatives from Zone 13 Ukpo arrested one of the leaders, identified as Ejike Muokwe. Others reportedly fled, including a suspect named Emmanuel Okonta.
Chief Anthony Uzokwe, Chairman of Native Medicine Practitioners in Ojoto, condemned the incident, stating the individuals were not registered with the government or known to the community.
He emphasized that all recognized practitioners in Ojoto are duly accredited and carry official identification.
“These unauthorized individuals invaded our sacred groves, shrines, streams, and other centres, performing rituals under the guise of spiritual cleansing,” Uzokwe explained.
He added that the group had earlier announced their plans through a town crier without consulting Otu Omenana Ojoto, the registered body of traditional practitioners.
Uzokwe stressed that such activities require approval from the community’s custodians of sacred sites and traditions.
He noted that the official practitioners had previously taken a public oath of transparency, an act the rogue group evaded.
Chief Ifeanyichukwu Anadi and Sunday Okonkwo, both members of the practitioners’ association, expressed concerns about the lingering issue, accusing some community leaders of providing implicit support for the rogue actions.
They called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to intervene and prevent further escalation.
A senior police officer involved in the operation said investigations are ongoing and pledged to provide updates soon.
Meanwhile, the State Police Public Relations Officer, Ikenga Tochukwu, confirmed he is yet to be briefed on the matter.
(AFRIPOST)
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