A woman set on fire by her son over allegations of witchcraft in Cross River State has passed away from her injuries.
The victim, identified as Mrs. Atim Etim, succumbed to her burns after being rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).
The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, in the Ojuah community of Akamkpa Local Government Area.
Accusations lead to violence
Trouble began following the death of the suspect’s daughter earlier that day.
According to community accounts, the suspect, identified as Emmanuel Etim, travelled to his mother’s residence carrying a lighter and approximately four litres of fuel.
Upon arrival, Etim confronted his mother, accusing her of using witchcraft to cause his daughter’s death. The confrontation escalated when he reportedly attempted to strangle her.
Although one of her daughters intervened to pull him away, Etim doused his mother with fuel as she attempted to flee and set her on fire.
Neighbours intervene, police launch manhunt
Neighbours who heard the commotion rushed to put out the flames before transferring the victim for emergency medical care. Despite efforts to treat her burns at UCTH, she later died.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the death, stating that officers are actively tracking the suspect, who fled the scene.
Police spokesperson ASP Sunday Eitokpah confirmed that a manhunt is underway and assured the public that further details will be released once the suspect is apprehended.
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