As reported by The Sun News, on Friday, March 6, 2026, a pharmacist and social activist from the United States, Mr. Martin Nwabueze, has openly confronted the Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, concerning the newly implemented Oke Ite law, which regulates the activities of traditional healers in the area.
Nwabueze voiced strong concerns about the clarity and timing of this recent legislation, noting that the state authorities initiated arrests of traditional healers just two days following the law’s formal approval.
He drew attention to the struggles of numerous practitioners who claimed they were surprised by the sudden regulations, specifically mentioning their bewilderment over the criminalisation of traditional items often known as ‘good luck charms’ in Igboland.
These practitioners insisted they were simply engaging in cultural customs they believed were lawful until the abrupt enforcement actions began.
In light of these confusion claims, Governor Soludo has maintained a steadfast position, asserting that ignorance of the law cannot serve as a valid excuse against prosecution once a law is officially in place.
This legal dispute was emphasized by the high-profile situation involving Akwa Okuko, a well-known native doctor who was recently sentenced to two years in prison under the new laws.
This particular conviction has sparked widespread public discussion, with advocates commending the administration for taking firm measures to eradicate illegal activities disguised as rituals, while critics like Nwabueze contend that the speed and approach of enforcement raise significant ethical issues.
Nwabueze, who is a co-founder of the non-profit Tilova For Africa, used his role as a humanitarian leader to call for greater consistency from the government.
He argued that if the administration aims to hold ordinary people strictly accountable to the law, then the same strict standards should apply to the governor and his staff concerning the management of public funds.
He maintained that errors in judgment or administrative mistakes should not be tolerated for public officials if they are not excused for traditional healers.
He demanded the resignation and prosecution of the governor, insisting that no one should be viewed as above the law.
The pharmacist additionally called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to promptly investigate the state’s financial activities.
He remarked, “he mistakenly approached Tinubu to report his offense and seek protection from the president.”
This provocative comment was part of broader criticism regarding a disputed financial transaction involving 100 million Naira.
Allegations have emerged stating that these funds were transferred from the Anambra State Government’s security budget to the private account of Victor Egbetokun, the son of the previous Inspector General of Police.
While the Nigeria Police Force has since clarified that the deposit was an error that was quickly amended and reversed, Nwabueze remains doubtful of the “mistake” explanation, questioning how such a large amount could be incorrectly transferred in the first place.
Additionally, Nwabueze criticized the recent demolition of buildings at the Onitsha Main Market.
He claimed that the state government went ahead with the destruction even though there was a valid court order meant to prevent such actions.
He depicted a dire situation in the aftermath, explaining how many traders were left in distress after being unable to access their stores and goods.
He contended that by disregarding legal limits and disrupting one of the area’s essential economic centers, the government has greatly endangered the livelihoods of its residents.
These overlapping issues surrounding the Oke Ite law, accusations of financial misconduct, and the contentious market demolitions have together placed the Soludo administration under significant public examination as various parties seek increased transparency and respect for the law…..See More
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