Fighting Witchcraft Accusations: The Battle for Justice in Nigeria

With the rise of witchcraft accusations leading to violence and even deaths in Nigeria, activist Leo Igwe and his organization strive to protect the vulnerable and challenge superstitious beliefs that fuel these tragic events.

In Nigeria, where belief in witchcraft often leads to tragic consequences, one man is fighting against the tide of violence and superstition. Dr. Leo Igwe, an activist with a doctorate in religious studies, has dedicated his life to assisting those falsely accused of witchcraft through his NGO, Advocacy For Alleged Witches. Driven by a commitment to compassion and reason, Dr. Igwe’s work spans not just Nigeria but extends to nations like Ghana and Malawi, where similar beliefs permeate society.

The stark realities of witch-hunting came to light through the harrowing experience of Jude, a 33-year-old man falsely accused of causing a boy's disappearance through witchcraft. After a seemingly innocent comment about the boy's agility led to a violent mob attack, Jude sustained injuries and lost his job due to the stigma associated with the accusation. This disturbing incident highlights the often violent outcomes of accusations, which can stem from ingrained cultural superstitions.

Dr. Igwe mobilizes support through a robust network of concerned citizens, utilizing platforms like WhatsApp to respond quickly to emerging witchcraft allegations. His organization stepped in to aid Jude, providing financial support for his recovery and pledging to cover his university tuition in hopes of facilitating a brighter future.

The pervasive fear of witches in Nigeria results in serious consequences for vulnerable populations. Many individuals targeted are often young, old, or disable and reside in poverty. As Dr. Olaleye Kayode, a lecturer on African Indigenous Religions, points out, societal ignorance and radical interpretations of religious teachings exacerbate these fears, leading to violent actions against the accused.

Witch-hunting rhetoric, often propagated by certain Pentecostal churches, reinforces the dangerous belief that alleged witches must be punished severely. Despite efforts to quell such messages, including petitions to prevent the continuation of anti-witch events, Dr. Igwe’s advocacy faces significant resistance. Yet, he declares that no threat or personal danger will deter him from his mission.

Although Nigeria's laws technically prohibit witchcraft accusations, enforcement is rare, leaving many individuals defenseless against the mob mentality that often accompanies these claims. The international community, represented by the UN Human Rights Council, has condemned these violations, yet witch-hunting remains a challenging social issue that Dr. Igwe refuses to romanticize as cultural tradition.

Confronting the damaging narratives surrounding witchcraft, Dr. Igwe’s unwavering commitment illustrates a courageous stand against injustice in Nigeria, as he strives to save lives and reshape societal perspectives.