James Godwin Reporting
The Asagba of Asaba, HRM Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge SAN, has banned the activities of Eze-Nwanyi (female native doctors) and other unregulated traditional practitioners, citing their alleged involvement in kidnappings, ritual killings, and cyber-related fraud
Announcing the decision at a press conference on Thursday, the monarch expressed deep concern over rising crime in Asaba, particularly after reports linked native doctors and shrines in the area to the murder of Anambra lawmaker Justice Azuka, whose body was discovered on the Niger Bridge.
The Asagba emphasized that many of these practitioners are outsiders with criminal motives.
“From today, the activities of Eze-Nwanyi and other unregulated native doctors are banned,” he declared.
Moving forward, all traditional practitioners in Asaba must register under the Otu-Ihaza, the town’s legislative authority.
He reiterated the urgent need for action, stating, “Anything that happens on this land affects us more than anyone else. It is unacceptable that Asaba has become a hub for these nefarious activities. Consequently, we have decided to take proactive steps to restore peace and order.”
To further address security concerns, the monarch launched Operation Know Your Tenants, mandating landlords to properly document all tenants.
“Criminals see Asaba as a safe haven. This must stop,” he warned. “Every landlord must have proper records of their tenants so we can account for who resides where.”
In his closing remarks, he said the move is to curb illegal social activities in the area and also help the security personnel, to fish out those responsible for engaging in such a heinous activities.