Enugu: Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has transmitted an Executive Bill to the Enugu State House of Assembly aimed at curbing criminal activities associated with native doctors and herbalists in the state. Mr. Uche Anichukwu, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on External Relations, made this known in Enugu.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the proposed legislation, titled ‘Maintenance of Internal Security, Vigilance and Order,’ seeks to outlaw practices such as money rituals, known locally as ‘Okite,’ and criminal bulletproof charms, referred to as ‘odeshi.’ The bill also addresses the illegal use or occupation of forests and properties for criminal endeavors.
Anichukwu explained that under Section 3 (1) of the bill, individuals practicing spiritual services within the state must register with designated state agencies. This requirement extends to native doctors, herbalists, spiritualists, and others with traditional or spiritual titles. Failure to register could result in fines ranging from N1 million to N5 million or a two-year imprisonment, or both.
Section 15 of the legislation specifies penalties for spiritualists who administer charms or substances intended for invincibility or to facilitate criminal activities. Convicted offenders could face six years of imprisonment or a fine of no less than N5 million, or both. Misleading the public regarding supernatural powers for personal gain also constitutes an offense, punishable by a three-year prison term or a fine of at least N3 million.
Further provisions of the bill place the onus on individuals claiming spiritual powers to provide proof during investigations. It prescribes six years of imprisonment or a N5 million fine for using religious places to facilitate crimes. Participation in rituals involving human parts carries a penalty of 20 years imprisonment without the option of a fine.
Anichukwu also highlighted that individuals found in suspicious circumstances within Enugu’s camps, bushes, or forests would be handed over to security officials. Stolen assets, unless claimed by a lawful owner, would be forfeited to the state government.