Vulnerable women face brutal fate from witchcraft accusations in Nigeria

Victor Ayeni's report highlights the human cost of this superstition and the culture of impunity that allows it to persist. One case involves Habse Ubale, 30, who was murdered in Garin Malam Village, Bauchi State, by three men, including Garba Daudu, over witchcraft allegations. Her husband and children were injured but escaped.

The Bauchi State Police Command reported one arrest, with two suspects at large. Another incident in February last year saw 50-year-old Hajara Saleh murdered in Borno State by three men, Ja’o Muhammad, Idrisa Muhammad, and Ya’u Muhammad, who accused her of bringing misfortune. In January 2025, Mrs. Ojo Kehinde, an elderly woman with sight problems, was beaten to death in Abeokuta, Ogun State, after a prophetess accused her of transforming into a bird and falling into a canal.

The prophetess and her son allegedly assaulted her, leading to her death two days later. Dr. Leo Igwe, National Director of Advocacy for Alleged Witches, states that such accusations reflect power imbalances and target vulnerable groups due to gender inequality, economic vulnerability, and social beliefs. He notes that modern education has not weakened the grip of superstition in Nigeria.

The European Union Agency for Asylum reports that in Nigeria, "witches" are blamed for misfortune, with elderly w