Man Burnt to Death Over Witchcraft Allegation in Ebonyi, 17 Arrested

Police in Ebonyi State, southeastern Nigeria, have arrested 17 individuals in connection with the brutal killing of Uromchi Okorocha, a man accused of witchcraft. The incident occurred on January 3 in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo North Local Government Area.

Force spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi revealed in a statement on Sunday that local youths accused Mr. Okorocha of causing multiple deaths through alleged supernatural powers. Acting on these accusations, the suspects apprehended the victim but, instead of handing him over to legal authorities, resorted to mob action.

According to Mr. Adejobi, police operatives from the Uwanna Division were dispatched to the scene on a rescue mission. Unfortunately, by the time they arrived, the mob had already executed and set Mr. Okorocha ablaze.

Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun condemned the act, describing it as jungle justice and a blatant disregard for the rule of law. He urged citizens to report suspected crimes to the appropriate authorities instead of taking matters into their own hands.

In his statement, the inspector general reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to ensuring public safety and bringing perpetrators of such crimes to justice. He called for stronger collaboration between the public and security agencies to address criminal activities and prevent further occurrences of violence.

Witchcraft accusations and related killings remain a significant issue in southern Nigeria, particularly in impoverished communities where misfortunes such as illness or death are often blamed on supernatural causes.