Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has raised concerns about the role of native doctors in encouraging young people to engage in criminal activities such as drug trafficking, cyber fraud, and kidnapping.
He stated that these traditional practitioners deceive youths by promising them supernatural protection, which often leads them into illegal ventures.
Speaking in Awka, Soludo explained that many young Nigerians have ended up in foreign prisons because they were made to believe that charms could make them invisible to security forces.
He pointed out that some native doctors prepare special charms, known as “Oke-Ite,” which they claim can help individuals transport illegal drugs without being detected.
However, once these individuals are caught, they face severe legal consequences.
The governor further revealed that when drug smuggling fails, some youths turn to cyber fraud, and when that does not work, they resort to kidnapping in search of quick wealth.
He expressed concern over the growing influence of these deceptive practices in Anambra State and vowed to put an end to them.
As part of efforts to restore order, the government has launched a crackdown on native doctors involved in criminal activities.
News About Nigeria reports that 30 suspects, including native doctors and some pastors, are currently under investigation.
Soludo stated that many of these individuals have fled the state, while those still present fear that their charms may lose their effectiveness due to the arrest of their makers.
Authorities have also confiscated several “Oke-Ite” pots, which will undergo forensic analysis.
The governor warned that if any of these items are found to contain human blood, their owners will face severe legal consequences.
Soludo reaffirmed his commitment to transforming Anambra into a safe and thriving state where legal businesses can flourish.
He called on residents, regardless of their background, to work together in making the state a hub for economic growth and development.
