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Anambra State Government Seals Shrine Linked to Oke Ite Practice, Yahoo Plus in Okija

In a groundbreaking move aimed at combating illegal and unethical practices in the state, the Anambra State Government has sealed a shrine in the Umuofor village of Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area. The shrine, allegedly linked to Ekene Igboegbueze, a prominent figure known for his supernatural claims of making people rich through illicit means, has come under intense scrutiny after complaints from the local community and investigations into its illegal activities.

The shrine, believed to be a hub for occult practices and fraudulent activities, was at the center of the government’s intervention. Mr. Ken Emeakai, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, led a team from the state’s Operation Udo Ga-Achi to seal the place, which had been linked to the dangerous practice of “Oke Ite,” commonly known in certain circles as Yahoo Plus, a fraudulent scheme that combines traditional witchcraft with online scams to make quick money.

Ekene Igboegbueze, a name that had been circulating among local communities, especially in Okija, has reportedly made a name for himself through promises of supernatural wealth. According to local sources and online videos, Igboegbueze claimed that through the practice of “Oke Ite” and other occult rituals, he could help individuals acquire immense wealth. These claims are largely based on a mix of traditional African spiritual practices, mysticism, and internet fraud.

Oke Ite, also known as Yahoo Plus, has become a growing concern for security forces and government officials in Nigeria. It is a practice where individuals seeking quick wealth engage in fraudulent activities, often through online scams, but also integrate elements of witchcraft and traditional rituals to enhance their success in these criminal undertakings. The combination of superstition and technology has made the practice highly dangerous, leading many to fall victim to both financial ruin and moral decay.

In a video that went viral online, Ekene Igboegbueze openly discussed his ability to perform these rituals for people, promising to make them rich through illicit means. This video not only raised alarm among community members but also led to an official investigation by the Anambra State Government, culminating in the sealing of the shrine.

The intervention of the Anambra State Government was led by Mr. Ken Emeakai, who serves as the Special Adviser on Community Security to Governor Chukwuma Soludo. Emeakai emphasized that the government took swift action after receiving multiple complaints from the people of Okija regarding the harmful effects of Igboegbueze’s activities. He further confirmed that the government was committed to maintaining peace and security in the region and protecting its citizens from fraudulent activities that threaten the fabric of society.

According to Emeakai, the shrine was sealed because it was used for illegal business practices that violated Anambra’s Homeland Security Laws. The people of Okija had expressed concerns over the growing popularity of Igboegbueze’s promises of wealth and the spiritual undertones associated with his operations. These activities, he said, were not only illegal but were also corrupting the minds of the youth and spreading harmful ideologies.

Emeakai went on to highlight that the government also seized several properties allegedly acquired by Igboegbueze using the proceeds from his illicit business ventures. These properties, which included valuable assets, were tied to the practice of “Oke Ite” and its fraudulent schemes. The items found at the shrine will undergo a forensic examination to determine their authenticity and to assist in further investigations into Igboegbueze’s activities. The outcome of the tests will ultimately inform the next steps that the government will take against him.

The controversy surrounding Ekene Igboegbueze’s shrine and his so-called supernatural wealth-making services is part of a larger, more concerning trend in Anambra State and other parts of Nigeria. Over the years, there has been an alarming rise in the number of fake native doctors, pastors, and spiritual leaders who prey on the desperation of individuals seeking to solve their financial and personal problems. These individuals promise quick solutions to life’s challenges, often through a combination of occult practices, deception, and fraud.

The Director of Operation for Agunechemba Security Outfit, Mr. Chinenye Ihenko, voiced his concerns about the increasing number of such fraudulent practitioners, stating that they were fostering a dangerous “get-rich-quick” mentality among the youth. These fake spiritual leaders, Ihenko argued, were feeding on the aspirations of young people who wanted to escape poverty and achieve instant wealth without hard work or dedication.

According to Ihenko, the growing prevalence of fake native doctors and pastors is detrimental to the social fabric of society. It promotes unethical practices and spreads false beliefs about the path to success. He also warned young people to desist from patronizing these deceptive figures, as they were only out to exploit their vulnerability and destroy their futures. Many of these practitioners, he said, were more interested in financial gain than in actually providing any meaningful spiritual or practical help to their clients.

The rise of fraudulent spiritual practices like “Oke Ite” and the popularity of “Yahoo Plus” have had profound effects on Nigerian youth, especially in Anambra State. Many young people, feeling frustrated with their economic situation, are turning to these illegal avenues to escape poverty. The desire for quick wealth, fueled by social media influencers and celebrities who flaunt their riches, has created a culture of impatience and greed.

For the youth, the promise of instant financial success through online scams and occult rituals is tempting. However, these practices come with dire consequences, both legally and morally. Many of those involved in online fraud end up being arrested, prosecuted, and jailed. Others face the psychological toll of engaging in illegal activities, which can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation.

The government’s decision to seal Igboegbueze’s shrine and take action against him is a step toward curbing the influence of these harmful practices. By cracking down on those who perpetuate fraudulent activities and reinforcing the importance of ethical behavior, the state government hopes to deter others from following the same path.

While the sealing of the shrine and the arrest of Ekene Igboegbueze is a positive development, experts believe that more needs to be done to address the root causes of the rise in fraudulent spiritual practices. Education, both in schools and within communities, is essential in helping young people understand the value of hard work, integrity, and ethical behavior. The government, in collaboration with religious organizations, traditional leaders, and civil society groups, must continue to emphasize the importance of pursuing legitimate means of success.

At the same time, law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant and proactive in investigating and dismantling illegal networks that promote occult practices and fraud. The collaboration between community security outfits and state agencies is crucial in maintaining peace and security in the region. With continued efforts, it is hoped that Anambra State can regain its reputation as a place where integrity and lawful practices are upheld, and the youth can find positive role models to emulate.

The sealing of the shrine linked to Ekene Igboegbueze and his alleged involvement in “Oke Ite” and Yahoo Plus practices marks a significant moment in Anambra State’s fight against fraudulent activities and unethical behavior. The government’s swift response to the complaints of the people of Okija reflects its commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining public order.

However, this incident also highlights the deeper societal issues at play, including the allure of quick wealth and the rise of fake spiritual leaders who prey on vulnerable individuals. The state must continue to address these challenges by promoting education, ethical behavior, and legitimate means of success. Only through collective action and a commitment to integrity can Anambra State hope to eliminate these harmful practices and build a brighter future for its youth.