AfAW Condemns Killing of Cross River Woman Allegedly Burnt Over Witchcraft Accusation
Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) has condemned the death of a Cross River State woman, Atim Emmanuel Akposi, who allegedly died after being set ablaze by her son following accusations of witchcraft.
In a statement issued on Thursday, AfAW Director, Dr. Leo Igwe, described the incident as a tragic consequence of harmful witchcraft allegations and called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspect.
According to the organisation, Emmanuel allegedly accused his mother of being responsible for the death of his child and had previously confronted her over the allegation.
AfAW said information from family members indicated that the suspect reportedly consulted some churches, where he was allegedly told that his mother was a witch.
The organisation alleged that on August 14, 2026, Emmanuel entered his mother’s room, attempted to strangle her and, after she resisted, allegedly knocked her down, poured petrol on her and set her ablaze before fleeing the community.
The victim was initially treated at a community health centre before being transferred to Akamkpa General Hospital and later to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where she reportedly died on August 19 from injuries sustained during the attack.
AfAW said it received a distress voice message on August 17 and subsequently contacted two of the deceased’s sons, John and Eyo, who reportedly confirmed the incident.
The organisation urged the Cross River State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the suspect and ensure he is prosecuted.
“The death of Atim Emmanuel Akposi highlights the devastating consequences of witchcraft accusations on innocent people,” AfAW stated.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
