Enugu Gov Mbah proposes bill to regulate native doctors to combat ritual killings
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has sent an executive bill to the State House of Assembly aimed at regulating the activities of native doctors, herbalists, and other related practitioners throughout the state.
The proposed legislation, titled “Maintenance of Internal Security, Vigilance, and Order,” seeks to outlaw money rituals, the use of criminal bulletproof charms, and the unlawful occupation of forests and properties for criminal purposes.
A statement released by the governor’s media office on Wednesday outlined that the bill will require private security outfits to register with the state government and submit details of armed personnel. Furthermore, presidents-general of town unions must provide regular security reports to local government chairmen.
All landlords and proprietors of hotels and guest houses will also be required to submit valid identification details, phone numbers, occupations, and places of employment for tenants and guests to the relevant authorities.
The bill outlines severe penalties for violations, including fines and imprisonment. For instance, Section 3(1) specifies that anyone practicing spiritual services without registration will face fines ranging from ₦1 million to ₦5 million or imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
Additionally, Section 15 targets individuals who administer charms or substances for criminal purposes, resulting in a potential six-year prison sentence or fines of not less than ₦5 million.
The proposed legislation further includes serious repercussions for false claims about supernatural powers and the misuse of religious facilities for criminal activities, with penalties as severe as twenty years’ imprisonment for involvement in rituals related to human parts.
The bill’s comprehensive approach aims to bolster security within Enugu State and deter criminal activities, with strict enforcement expected by the state government.
Source: PUNCH
