Author
Chikaodili Nwume
Department of African & Asian Studies
Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka
+2347035239569
Abstract
The Dibịa institution constitutes an important component
of Igbo indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage, with
historical associations with traditional healing, herbal
medicine, divination, spirituality and other specialised
forms of knowledge. In contemporary Anambra State,
however, concerns have emerged regarding individuals
who appropriate the identity of the Dibịa to engage in
deception, exploitation, unsafe practices or other forms
of criminality. The challenge presents a complex
governance problem because an effective response must
simultaneously protect citizens, regulate potentially
harmful practices and preserve legitimate indigenous
knowledge. This article examines the prospects of the
Anambra State Government in addressing the menace of
fraudulent Dibịa practices within the context of recent
developments in traditional medicine regulation in the
state and Nigeria. Drawing on scholarly literature,
official policy documents and relevant legal and
institutional developments, the article argues that the
appropriate policy response is not the indiscriminate suppression of the Dibịa institution but the development
and effective implementation of a transparent regulatory
framework that distinguishes legitimate traditional
practice from fraud and criminal conduct. The article
identifies practitioner registration and licensing,
professional standards, public enlightenment, inter-
agency collaboration, community participation, digital
monitoring, research and documentation of indigenous
knowledge, and evidence-based enforcement as
important prospects. It further argues that regulation will
only succeed if it is implemented with procedural
fairness, institutional capacity, cultural sensitivity and
accountability. The article concludes that Anambra State
has an opportunity to develop a model of indigenous
medicine governance in which public safety, cultural
preservation and responsible regulation reinforce one
another.
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