Herbalist sentenced to six years in prison in Nigeria — Premium Times Nigeria
The High Court of Anambra State in Awka, Nigeria, sentenced herbalist Ekene Igboekweze, known as Eke Hit, to six years in prison. Judge Jude Obiora handed him six years on each of the first and second counts, but the sentences will run concurrently. No fine is provided as an alternative to imprisonment, and the time Igboekweze has already spent in custody will be credited toward his sentence.
As Premium Times Nigeria reports, the judge concluded that the prosecution proved the first and second counts beyond a reasonable doubt. The court decided the third count in favor of the defendant.
Charges and defense
Igboekweze and other suspects appeared before the court on April 4, 2025. They were charged with conspiracy, kidnapping, making protective amulets, and conducting money rituals.
During his defense, Igboekweze said that he was a registered herbalist and a member of the Odinani Okija Traditional Association. According to him, he used herbs and roots in his practice, while the videos that made him popular on social media were recorded before the Anambra State Homeland Security Law of 2025 was enacted.
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Request for leniency
Before sentencing, Igboekweze apologized, saying that he had learned his lessons, and asked the court to take his family’s situation into account. In particular, he drew the court’s attention to his newborn triplets, whom, he said, he had not yet seen.
His wife Elizabeth and half-brother also pleaded for leniency, describing him as a well-mannered and kind person. Igboekweze is from Umuofor village in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area. He gained popularity on social media by advertising amulets said to be capable of bringing wealth.
Igboekweze was arrested in February 2025 together with two other herbalists. The Anambra State Homeland Security Law of 2025 prohibits herbalists from claiming that they can make people wealthy through Oke Ite rituals and other practices, as well as from making amulets for criminals.
