The native doctors of Orumba South Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria, under the banner of Odinala Orumba South, have initiated a decisive measure to combat unethical practices and criminal activities within their ranks. In a symbolic act of commitment, the practitioners gathered at the Izo Mmili Shrine in Umunze to partake in a traditional oath-taking ceremony. This action underscores the growing concern over the infiltration of fraudulent individuals posing as native doctors, who often exploit their assumed authority for personal gain and engage in illicit activities. The oath serves as a public declaration of their commitment to ethical conduct and a warning to those who would tarnish the reputation of traditional medicine.
Christian Umeh, the chairman of Odinala Orumba South, articulated the primary objectives of the oath-taking exercise. He emphasized the group’s determination to uphold ethical standards within the practice of traditional medicine and to identify and expel any members found to be aiding and abetting criminal activities. The oath also served to safeguard the integrity of those tasked with identifying rogue practitioners, ensuring they would not be susceptible to bribery or intimidation. This comprehensive approach aims to build a system of internal accountability and self-regulation, signaling a clear intent to cleanse their profession of unscrupulous individuals. The deadline given to absent members to take the oath reinforces the seriousness of this commitment and the group’s resolve to achieve full participation in this initiative.
The local government authorities have expressed their support for this initiative. Shedrack Azubuike, the Chairman of Orumba South Local Government Area, sent a representative, King Nwabueze, to witness the oath-taking ceremony. This gesture of support signifies the alignment of the local government with the practitioners’ efforts. Nwabueze’s presence underscores the local government’s recognition of the importance of this initiative in achieving Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision for a secure and prosperous Anambra State. This collaboration between traditional practitioners and the government paints a picture of a unified front against criminal activities within the region.
The Anambra State government has also clarified its position on traditional medicine practices, emphasizing its support for genuine practitioners while condemning those involved in criminal activities. Don Onyenji, the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, reiterated Governor Soludo’s respect for Igbo culture and traditions, including the legitimate practice of traditional medicine. He distinguished between authentic practitioners and those who exploit the profession for criminal purposes, highlighting the government’s focus on eradicating the latter. This clarification aims to dispel any misconceptions about the government’s stance and reassure genuine practitioners of their continued right to practice.
The government’s commitment to tackling this issue is further demonstrated by the establishment of Agụnaechemba, a specialized security outfit. This unit is tasked with pursuing native doctors suspected of involvement in criminal activities, such as providing charms for kidnappers, armed robbers, and ritualists. The creation of this task force signals a proactive approach to combating crime and reinforces the government’s determination to hold those who abuse their positions accountable. This proactive stance acknowledges the seriousness of the issue and the need for a dedicated team to address it.
The initiative launched by Odinala Orumba South has received support from within the community of traditional medicine practitioners. John Ahamkonye, a native doctor, voiced concerns about the increasing infiltration of fake practitioners, acknowledging the damage they inflict on the reputation and credibility of genuine practitioners. His support for the oath-taking underscores a shared understanding of the urgency and importance of addressing this problem. This internal support solidifies the movement’s legitimacy and demonstrates a collective desire for self-regulation and the preservation of the integrity of traditional medicine. Ahamkonye’s endorsement highlights the widespread recognition of the problem and the need for collective action.
