ADAZI-ANI, Nigeria — Authorities in Anambra State have arrested a couple for starving their five-year-old daughter due to allegations of witchcraft.
The startling case has brought issues surrounding child abuse and religious extremism into sharp focus.
The couple were taken into custody in Adazi-Ani, located in Anaocha Local Government Area.
Mrs. Ify Obinabo, the state’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, confirmed the arrest on Thursday, September 7, 2023, explaining that her primary assignment is “to protect the rights of every child in the state.”
A Prophecy Turns Cruel
Mrs. Blessing Wosu, the victim’s mother, confessed to the crime, stating that she and her husband were acting upon a prophecy from their pastor, who claimed their daughter was a witch.
“Our pastor gave us a prophecy that she is a witch and does not deserve to live. We were told that she is responsible for her father’s downfall in business,” said Wosu.
Wosu also admitted that they made their daughter sleep on a plank due to issues related to bed-wetting, further complicating the child’s suffering.
Community Alerts and Immediate Action
The arrest came following reports from Mr. Gerald Ozoh, the Transition Committee Chairman of Anaocha LGA, and Mrs. Chinwe Uba, the state coordinator of Ladies of Good Governance.
Both reported the situation to Commissioner Obinabo, who promptly intervened.
Obinabo assured the accused would not go unpunished, adding that “the girl is receiving treatments at the hospital while her parents would be handed over to the police for further investigation.”
Addressing a Larger Problem
The case highlights the often dangerous intersection of religious belief and child welfare in parts of Nigeria.
While belief in witchcraft is deeply entrenched in some communities, the government is keen to point out that such beliefs should not put children at risk.
The case serves as a grim reminder that more needs to be done to educate the public on child welfare and to curb extremism under the guise of religious prophesy.
