The Anambra State Government on Monday, announced a groundbreaking initiative to regulate all the activities of traditional healers and spiritual practitioners within the state.
According to an aide of the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, Mazi Opara Ejimofor, the state government said effective January 2025, all Ezenwanyi (Traditional Priestesses) and Dibias (Native Doctors and Traditional Healers) will be required to register to operate legally in Anambra State.
Concerns have risen among various quarters over the conduct of many of the traditional practitioners, who allegedly provide charms and amulets for criminals perpetrating all kinds of crimes including armed robbery and kidnappings in the state.
Aslo, some of the native doctors and ezenwanyis have been known to be performingf all kinds of rituals and sacrifices for young people, in their quest to make quick money, through internet fraud and other illegitimate means.
According to the state government, the decision to regulate the native doctors, herbalists and traditional priestesses, was to streamline traditional practices while preserving cultural heritage and ensuring accountability.
It said the initiative is a continuation of a broader regulatory framework introduced by the state in 2022.
“The government began categorizing traditional practitioners into herbalists and spiritualists, recognizing their contributions to healthcare and cultural preservation.
“However, concerns about the misuse of these practices—particularly allegations of aiding criminal activities like kidnapping and extortion—have necessitated stricter oversight.
“Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of this registration process in addressing security challenges, noting that some individuals may exploit traditional practices to create protective charms for criminals.
“The registration will help the government maintain a comprehensive database of practitioners, enabling monitoring and holding accountable those who violate laws or ethical standards,” he said.
While the exact date of this new policy’s announcement remains unspecified, the governor’s aide noted that the January 2025 deadline underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a secure and culturally respectful environment.
He further said; “For further updates, stakeholders and residents are encouraged to follow official communications from the Anambra State Government and reliable media outlets.
“This regulation is seen as a critical step in safeguarding the integrity of traditional medicine and spiritual practices while ensuring they contribute positively to societal well-being.”
