Anambra State Releases Akwa Okuko as Youth Ambassador

The Anambra State Government has announced the early release of native doctor Chidozie Nwangwu, popularly known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, from prison. His release was facilitated by a plea bargain, his expressed remorse, and the short duration remaining on his 11-month sentence.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo approved the release, which occurred last week, and subsequently appointed Nwangwu as a youth ambassador for Anambra State. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Tochukwu Nweke, SAN, explained that the plea bargain allowed Nwangwu to receive a lesser sentence, and his remorse provided grounds for the governor to exercise his prerogative of mercy.

Nweke noted that the Soludo administration is promoting plea bargaining to decongest correctional facilities, having received about 150 applications for such arrangements in the past two months. The initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of the justice system while keeping eligible offenders out of custodial facilities.