An Anambra High Court sitting in Awka has sentenced popular native doctor Ekene Igboekweze, known as “Eke Hit”, to 12 years’ imprisonment over charges linked to money rituals and related offences.
Justice Jude Obiora sentenced Igboekweze to six years on each of two counts, with the terms to run concurrently without an option of fine. The court also considered the period he had already spent in detention.
Igboekweze and other suspects were arraigned in April 2025 on charges including conspiracy, kidnapping, protective charms and money rituals. In his defence, he described himself as a registered herbalist and member of the Odinani Okija Traditional Association, saying he used herbs and roots in his practice.
In his judgment, Justice Obiora held that the prosecution had proved the first and second counts beyond reasonable doubt but resolved the third count in favour of the defendant. Before sentencing, Igboekweze pleaded for forgiveness and asked the court to consider his family, particularly his newborn triplets whom he said he had not seen.
Igboekweze gained social-media popularity through videos advertising charms purportedly capable of bringing wealth. He was arrested in February 2025 by Agunechemba security vigilance operatives alongside two other native doctors following the enactment of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2025.
The law prohibits native doctors from claiming to make people wealthy through “Oke Ite” and other rituals, as well as preparing charms for criminals.
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