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Imo Govt to Clampdown on native doctors, shrines
DDM NEWS
The Imo State government has initiated a crackdown on non-indigenous native doctors and shrines, sparking controversy and debate.
This move aims to regulate traditional practices and protect citizens from potential harm.
The government cites concerns about the safety and security of citizens, alleging that some traditional practices are harmful or exploitative.
Authorities seek to regulate traditional practices, ensuring they align with modern standards and laws.
The clampdown may restrict the activities of non-indigenous native doctors and shrines, potentially affecting cultural and traditional practices.
Some argue that this move could help preserve authentic cultural practices, while others fear it may erase valuable traditions.
Some citizens and groups support the government’s initiative, citing the need to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
Others oppose the move, arguing that it infringes upon cultural rights and traditional practices.
The Imo State government’s crackdown on non-indigenous native doctors and shrines raises important questions about the balance between cultural preservation and public safety.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders will likely continue to debate the implications of this policy.
Security operatives, acting on directives from the state government, have started raiding shrines and unlicensed herbal medicine practices suspected of engaging in deceptive and illegal activities.
Authorities warn that individuals masquerading as traditional healers while engaging in fraudulent and criminal enterprises will face prosecution.
The communique below corroborates the clampdown.
The Communique signed by its Chairman, His Royal Majesty, Eze Emmanuel Okeke , three Deputy Chairmen; His Royal Majesty, Eze Iheanacho Ndukwe (Okigwe zone), His Royal Majesty, Eze Thomas Obiefule (Orlu zone), His Royal Majesty, Eze Fredrick Nwachukwu (Owerri zone) and the twenty Seven Chairmen of Council of Traditional Rulers in the twenty Seven Local Government Areas of Imo State also advised indigenous native doctors to register with their various traditional rulers and Local Government chairmen before continuation of their practice.
The communique read in parts “The Imo State Traditional Rulers in their meeting of Wednesday, 26th February, 2025 reaffirmed their desire and determination to rid Imo State of criminal elements no matter the guise.
“That all stranger elements who are operating as traditionalists in the State,town ,vilages as their libations,incantations and sacrifices will not be accepted by the gods of the land since they are not indigenes.
“Consequently, all shrines ,alters arising therefrom should be dismantled with immediate effect and the practices stopped forthwith
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