Enugu Govt Targets Ritualists, Bandits with New Security Bill

The Enugu State Government has transmitted a new Executive Bill to the State House of Assembly titled “Maintenance of Internal Security, Vigilance and Order” to curb rising criminality and unregulated spiritual practices.

The proposed legislation, initiated by Governor Peter Mbah, aims to outlaw money rituals, commonly referred to as okite, and criminal charms for invincibility such as odeshi.

It also sets strict guidelines for traditional practitioners including native doctors, herbalists, spiritualists, seers, and others requiring them to register with a designated government agency or face penalties.

According to Section 3 (1) of the bill, any person engaged in spiritual or traditional services without registration will face fines ranging from ₦1 million to ₦5 million or two years imprisonment, or both.

Section 15 specifically criminalizes the use of charms or rituals intended to facilitate crimes or acquire wealth through supernatural means. Offenders face up to six years imprisonment or a ₦5 million fine.

The bill also cracks down on false spiritual claims, stipulating three years imprisonment or a ₦3 million fine for anyone misleading the public about possessing supernatural powers. It shifts the burden of proof to the claimant, requiring evidence of such alleged powers during investigations.

Religious spaces are also under scrutiny. Section 16 prescribes six years imprisonment or a ₦5 million fine for using or allowing religious venues to be used for criminal activities. Such facilities will be sealed pending investigation.

In perhaps the toughest clause, Section 17 mandates 20 years imprisonment without the option of a fine for anyone involved in rituals that include the use of human parts.

The bill also seeks to sanitize Enugu’s forests and uninhabited areas, which are frequently used by kidnappers and bandits. Under Section 13, anyone found loitering in forests without lawful reason will be handed over to law enforcement. Additionally, those who own or control properties knowingly used for kidnapping or criminal hideouts will face criminal prosecution.

Governor Mbah’s administration says the bill is a bold response to the misuse of traditional practices for criminal ends and part of broader efforts to secure lives and property across the state.