Anambra Arrests Native Doctor in Nnewi for allegedly luring youths with promises of quick wealth, violating the state’s Homeland Security Law

The Agunechemba Security Outfit in Anambra State has arrested and paraded John Ezenagu, a native doctor popularly known as “Mmou Mmili Afulu Anya,” for allegedly violating the state’s Homeland Security Law by promoting rituals that promised quick wealth.

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Security operatives on Friday escorted Ezenagu to his residence in Nnewi for a detailed search as part of ongoing investigations into his activities.

Speaking during the parade, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, said the suspect allegedly lured young men and women with promises of instant riches if they bathed in a stream located behind his home.

Emeakayi described the practice as a disturbing violation of the state’s security regulations and warned that such activities undermine ongoing efforts to curb criminality and ritual-related scams in the region.

According to him, the suspect had previously been cautioned by authorities but allegedly continued the practice despite official warnings.

“After investigations, he will be handed over to the police for further investigation, after which he will face prosecution if found culpable,” Emeakayi said.

While addressing journalists during the parade, Ezenagu admitted wrongdoing and pleaded for forgiveness from the state government and residents.

“I have sinned. I appeal to Governor Soludo for forgiveness and promise to turn a new leaf,” he said. “I vow never to deceive young people in the state again.”

The suspect added that he had dredged the river behind his house and believed he had certain rights over it, while promising that he would no longer engage in any activity that could pollute the water or mislead members of the public.

The arrest comes amid a broader crackdown on ritual-related fraud and deceptive spiritual practices across the state following the enactment of the Agunechemba Homeland Security Law 2025.

Governor Soludo signed the legislation into law after it was passed by the Anambra State House of Assembly, creating a framework aimed at strengthening community-based security, discouraging criminal rituals, and promoting social responsibility among residents.

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Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as security agencies continue to enforce the law in a bid to protect vulnerable youths and restore public confidence.