Man Sets Mother Ablaze in Cross River Over Witchcraft Slur

​Tragedy was narrowly averted in the Ojuah community of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Cross River State, after a grieving father, Emmanuel Etim, allegedly set his mother, Mrs. Atim Eyo, on fire over accusations of witchcraft.

​The horrifying incident unfolded following the sudden death of Etim’s young daughter earlier that day. Consumed by grief and malignant beliefs tied to witchcraft branding, Etim armed himself with roughly four liters of fuel and a lighter before heading straight to his mother’s residence.

​According to local accounts, the suspect confronted the elderly woman, holding her directly responsible for the child’s demise. The confrontation quickly turned physical when Etim stood up and attempted to strangle her.

ADVERTISEMENT

​Although Mrs. Eyo managed to break free and attempted to escape, Etim pursued her, doused her in petrol, and ignited the flames. Quick-thinking neighbours rushed to the scene upon hearing the commotion, successfully extinguishing the fire before rushing the severely injured victim to a hospital for urgent medical care.

​Confirming the development, the Cross River State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, verified the occurrence in a statement released in Calabar. He noted that the suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack and is currently at large.

​”The unfortunate incident did occur as alleged in the report. However, the Police Command is currently making concerted efforts to apprehend the suspect, who is presently at large, to enable him to answer to the allegations against him,” Eitokpah stated.

​Law enforcement authorities have assured the public that comprehensive updates will be provided once the suspect is captured and further details of the investigation are brought to light.