By Sylvia Akpan
The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) has called for justice following the death of Mrs. Atim Etim who was set ablaze by her son in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The deceased was accused of witchcraft. Her son, Emmanuel Etim had blamed her for his daughter’s death.
The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, in Ojuah, Akamkpa Local Government Area, when Etim travelled to his mother’s residence carrying about four liters of fuel and a lighter.
Etim arrived at his mother’s house following the death of his daughter earlier that day. He confronted his mother, accusing her of causing the child’s death and demanding to know what he had done to her to warrant such an act.
The situation escalated when Etim stood up from his chair and attempted to strangle her.
As the victim shouted for help, one of her daughters intervened and struggled with Etim, forcing him to release their mother.
The victim, upon breaking free, attempted to flee. However, Etim poured fuel on her and set her ablaze. Neighbours who witnessed the incident quickly intervened and succeeded in putting out the fire before rushing the victim to a hospital for medical attention. However, while she was moved to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for proper treatment, the harm was far beyond salvation.
Human Rights organization, Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), said the tragedy came to their notice through a voice note shared in a WhatsApp group of pastors.
The BRCI said following the report, they immediately contacted a partner organization and began efforts to verify and respond to the incident. Efforts were made to reach out to the victim in UCTH but on Wednesday, August 19th, 2026, it was confirmed she gave up the ghost.
The Cross River State Police Command through its Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah said efforts are on ground to track and arrest the suspect who is now at large.
“Further information will be communicated to the public as soon as the suspect is apprehended and the facts of the matter are further established,” he added.
Meanwhile, BRCI noted that the development has heightened concerns over the deadly consequences of witchcraft accusations, particularly against older persons and other vulnerable members of the society.
The Rights organization called on relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and ensure that the alleged perpetrator is brought to justice.
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