Advocacy Organisation Urges State Authorities to Action

11 November 2025

Advocacy for Alleged Witches founder, Dr Leo Igwe (below, right), has urged authorities to take action to ensure the proper investigation and prosecution of those who abuse children in the name of witchcraft accusation.

In a report published in the New Times Newspaper this morning, two recent and disturbing cases are described. The first, in Bayelsa state, a police officer reportedly accused and then tortured three children (pictured below), horrifically injuring them. Reports say that the policeman is in custody, whilst the children have been taken to hospital for treatment. In the second case, a man reportedly poisoned and killed his three children after a ‘pastor’ advised him that the children were responsible for the man’s illness.

These two appalling cases are, sadly, just the tip of the iceberg. Dr. Igwe reminds us that most cases are never properly reported and of those that are, just a few reach the courts. He rightly advocates that the perpetrators of these crimes should be investigated fully and brought to justice.

“The Advocacy for Alleged Witches urges state authorities to end this culture of impunity and rise their constitutional duties and responsibilities.”

He and his team will be working across Bayelsa state to educate and enlighten witchcraft believers and to support these children and other victims of witch hunts in the state.

Ends

Other References:

https://www.safechildafrica.org

https://www.newtimes.com.ng/parents-witch-hunting-and-child-protection-in-bayelsa/