The family and kinsmen of popular native doctor, Chukwudozie Nwangwu, widely known as Akwa Okuko Tiwara Aki, have appealed to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to grant him pardon and clemency following his continued detention.
In a two-page petition signed by leaders of the Ezenkwu/Oraelighoba kindred in Umumpama Aboji village, Oba, Idemili South Local Government Area, the community begged the Governor to “temper justice with mercy.” The petition was endorsed by Chinedu Okeme (Chairman), Augustine Okwuanalum (Secretary), Nze Dozie Nweke (former President, Aboji village), and Ogbueshi Vincent Ejiofor (elder).
According to them, the absence of Nwangwu has left many in the community distressed, especially those who depended on him as a breadwinner. They noted that beyond his family, numerous people had benefited from his generosity, which included scholarships for indigent students, support for widows and widowers, and contributions to community development projects like road rehabilitation.
In the petition titled “Special and Humble Appeal for Pardon and Clemency”, the kinsmen acknowledged that the case was already before a competent court but stressed that the Governor had the constitutional power to pardon him. They pointed out that such acts of mercy had been exercised in the past under mitigating circumstances.
They further argued that Nwangwu had no previous criminal record, was at a prime but vulnerable age, and had shown remorse and cooperated fully with authorities while in custody. They maintained that many families who relied on him would suffer greatly if he remained incarcerated.
“For to err is human and to forgive is divine,” the petition read. “We believe these factors are enough to influence Your Excellency’s decision to grant him pardon.”
The community leaders assured Governor Soludo that Nwangwu had learned his lesson, particularly regarding his use of social media to promote his profession, which they admitted was inappropriate.
They expressed confidence that the Governor would consider their plea, emphasizing that clemency would not only aid Nwangwu’s rehabilitation but also promote peace and social cohesion within the community.
By Sunny A. David, Awka
