Tragedy struck in Magama Gumau, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, after a woman, identified as Suwaira Ibrahim, allegedly burnt the private part of her husband’s younger sister over accusations of witchcraft.
The victim, a seven-year-old girl (name withheld), was said to have been brutalised after Suwaira’s child claimed to have seen her among a group of witches.
An activist in the community, Kabiru Abdulkadir, explained that the family took the child to a man to confirm the allegation.
“The man told them that she is not a witch, but Suwaira disagreed with the confirmation. They returned home and placed a knife or spoon on fire, which they used to burn the child’s private part, believing that if she was truly a witch, she would not feel pain,” Abdulkadir said.
He added that the girl’s cries attracted neighbours, who insisted that the matter be reported to the police.
In a video clip obtained by journalists, the girl’s private parts and thighs appeared severely burnt. Abdulkadir noted that the injuries left her unable to pass urine or stool properly, while the stench from the wounds had made life unbearable for her family.
The victim was later rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi, where she is receiving treatment.
Confirming the incident, the Bauchi State Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, said the case was reported at the Toro Divisional Headquarters before being referred to the State Command.
“We are aware of it. Initially, some people wanted to cover up the case and handle it at the community level, but we insisted it should be reported. The case has been referred to the State Headquarters for further investigation and prosecution. We will issue a detailed statement once we receive full reports,” Wakil said.
Cases of violence against children accused of witchcraft remain a recurring problem in some parts of Nigeria, despite the Child Rights Act which criminalises such practices. Human rights groups have continued to raise alarm over minors being tortured, abandoned, or killed on unfounded claims of sorcery.
