The Enugu State Government has taken a bold step towards tackling insecurity and criminal activities in the state. Governor Peter Mbah has transmitted an Executive Bill to the Enugu State House of Assembly to regulate and checkmate the activities of native doctors, herbalists, and other spiritual practitioners.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The proposed legislation, entitled “Maintenance of Internal Security, Vigilance and Order”, has several key provisions to curb criminal activities in the state. Some of the notable provisions include:
- Registration of Spiritual Practitioners: Every person engaged in spiritual practices must register with the state government, failing which they will face a fine of N1-5 million or 2-year imprisonment.
- Outlawing Money Rituals: The bill outlaws money rituals, also known as ‘okite’, and prescribes 6 years imprisonment or a fine of N5 million or both for anyone found guilty.
- Criminal Bulletproof Charms: The bill also outlaws criminal bulletproof charms, known as ‘odeshi’, and prescribes similar penalties.
- Use of Forests and Property for Banditry: The bill proposes 20 years imprisonment without a fine for anyone who uses their property or forest for banditry or kidnapping.
- Private Security Outfits: Private security outfits must register with the state government and provide particulars of their operatives.
Impact on Security
What’s Next?
The bill will now be deliberated upon by the Enugu State House of Assembly. If passed, it will provide a framework for the state government to tackle insecurity and criminal activities.
Key Highlights
- Enugu Govt transmits Executive Bill to regulate spiritual practitioners.
- Bill outlaws money rituals, criminal bulletproof charms, and use of forests for banditry.
- Private security outfits must register with the state government.
- Landlords and proprietors of hotels must obtain and transmit identification details of tenants and guests.
- Penalties for contravention range from fines to imprisonment.