By Frank Ulom
A man has allegedly set his mother on fire over witchcraft accusations in Cross River State.
The incident occurred on Monday, August 17, 2026, in Akamkpa Local Government Area of the state.
According to Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), the victim was rushed to the hospital, where she later died today, August 19, 2026.
The man claimed his mother was responsible for his child’s death.
Below are the full details as narrated by BRCI:
“On Monday, 17 August 2026, we received a voice note in one of our pastors’ WhatsApp groups reporting a disturbing case of witchcraft accusation in Akamkpa, Cross River State.
According to the information received, a son allegedly set his elderly mother ablaze, blaming her for the death of his child.
Upon receiving the report, Basic Rights Counsel Initiative immediately contacted a partner organisation and followed up on the case. On Tuesday, we visited the victim at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where she had been rushed for medical treatment.
Sadly, today, we received the heartbreaking news that the woman has passed away.
The alleged perpetrator is reportedly still at large.
This tragic incident is yet another painful reminder of the devastating consequences of witchcraft accusations, particularly against older women and other vulnerable persons.
BRCI will continue to push for justice for the deceased and her family. We call on the relevant authorities to ensure that the alleged perpetrator is brought to justice and that cases of this nature are thoroughly investigated.
JUSTICE MUST PREVAIL!”