Sickness Forces Delay in Nnewi Native Doctor’s Arraignment

Native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu being assisted by men of Agunachemba around the court premises 

The arraignment of Nnewi-based native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, could not proceed before the Anambra State High Court sitting in Awka due to his alleged ill health.

Ezenagu, popularly known as “Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya,” appeared frail in court, raising concerns about his fitness to stand trial.

Presiding Judge, Justice Jude Obiora, after observing the defendant’s condition in court, adjourned the matter to June 3, ruling that the defendant was not medically fit to take his plea.

The defendant was brought to court amid a disagreement between the prosecution and defence teams regarding his health status. 

The prosecution, led by the Anambra State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Tobechukwu Nweke, SAN, argued that the case should proceed despite the defendant’s condition.

However, defence counsel, Mr. Kingsley Awuka, maintained that his client required urgent medical attention and was unfit for further proceedings.

Speaking with journalists after the sitting, Nweke stated that the state government remained ready to continue with the prosecution of the case.

In his remarks, Awuka expressed optimism that the defendant would be fit to stand trial by the next adjourned date.

Ezenagu was arrested on March 12 in Nnewi and is currently being prosecuted under the Anambra State Homeland Security Law.

 He is  being accused  of ritual activities linked to crime,Authorities accused him of performing illegal rituals and operating a shrine where such activities took place.

He is accused of Supplying fake charms and aiding fraud

He was also alleged to be involved in providing charms and possibly counterfeit currency to internet fraudsters (Yahoo boys), encouraging criminal activity in the state.

He was also accused of deceiving youths with “get-rich-quick” promises.

Officials said he lured young people with promises of instant wealth, including instructing them to perform strange rituals like bathing in a stream for riches. 

His arrest is part of a broader crackdown under the Anambra Homeland Security Law (2025), which criminalizes:

Preparing charms for criminals (e.g., “bulletproof” charms)

Promoting money rituals

Misleading the public with fraudulent spiritual claims

Violators can face 6–20 years in prison. 

Authorities said he had already been warned about his activities but continued, which contributed to the decision to arrest him.