Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has raised significant concerns regarding the deceptive practices of purported native doctors and prophets operating within the state. Speaking at a public gathering in Awka, Governor Soludo highlighted the detrimental influence these individuals exert on the youth population. He asserted that these fraudulent practitioners mislead young people into believing in the efficacy of charms and talismans to circumvent security measures, particularly in illicit activities such as drug trafficking.
The governor cited the alarming statistic of 23 Anambra indigenes currently facing death sentences in Indonesia for drug-related offenses, directly linking their predicament to the false assurances provided by these deceitful figures. He emphasized that these individuals peddle the dangerous illusion that supernatural means can render airport scanners ineffective against drug smuggling. Governor Soludo firmly stated that his administration possesses concrete evidence before apprehending any individual, directly addressing recent protests concerning the detention of a pastor accused of similar activities.
Governor Soludo further elaborated on the inconsistencies and inherent falsehoods in the claims made by these so-called spiritual guides. He pointed out the stark contrast between their purported powers and their own life circumstances, using the example of a detained practitioner whose son works as a waiter. The governor stressed that these individuals propagate a harmful narrative that wealth can be attained through rituals rather than diligent effort, contributing to a culture of idleness among some youths who abandon productive pursuits for unfounded hopes of instant riches.
In light of these developments, Governor Soludo issued a strong warning that any individual identified as making such deceptive claims and negatively influencing the youth will face arrest and prosecution.