Ndukwe Edward
A family in Ojuah, Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, has been thrown into mourning after a woman, Mrs. Atim Etim, reportedly died from severe burns allegedly inflicted on her by her own son following an accusation of witchcraft.
What began as grief over the death of a child reportedly turned into a horrifying confrontation that left a mother fighting for her life and a family facing an unimaginable tragedy.
The incident reportedly occurred on Friday, August 14, when Mrs. Etim’s son, identified as Emmanuel Etim, allegedly accused his mother of being responsible for the death of his daughter, who had reportedly died earlier that day.
According to reports, the grieving father confronted his mother during an altercation, allegedly armed with fuel and a lighter.
In a moment that has shocked residents, Emmanuel allegedly set his mother on fire.
Neighbours reportedly rushed to her aid and took the badly burned woman to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel battled to save her.
But after five days of fighting for her life, Mrs. Etim reportedly succumbed to her injuries on Wednesday, August 19.
She was a mother who, according to the circumstances reported, became the target of a devastating accusation at the very moment her family was already confronting the pain of losing a child.
Her death has once again raised painful questions about the consequences of witchcraft accusations and the vulnerability of people who are branded witches without evidence.
The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) has condemned the incident and called for justice, warning that accusations of witchcraft can expose vulnerable people to violence, abuse and even death.
The Cross River State Police Command reportedly confirmed that Emmanuel is currently at large, with efforts ongoing to locate and arrest him.
As the community awaits further developments, the tragedy leaves behind a deeply disturbing question: How did the death of a child lead to the death of a mother?
For Mrs. Atim Etim, the accusation may have lasted only moments, but the consequences were fatal.
Her death is now a grim reminder of how grief, superstition and unproven accusations can combine to produce irreversible tragedy.
Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice.
Source: Calabar Rant
