Man sets mother on fire in Cross River over witchcraft accusation

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A man identified as Emmanuel Etim has allegedly set his mother, Mrs Atim Eyo, on fire after accusing her of being responsible for the death of his daughter in an alleged case of witchcraft branding.

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The incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, in Ojuah, Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State, when Etim reportedly travelled to his mother’s residence carrying about four litres of fuel and a lighter.

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According to an eyewitness who pleaded anonymity, Etim arrived at his mother’s house following the death of his daughter earlier that day. He later confronted his mother, accusing her of causing the child’s death and demanding to know what he had done to her to warrant such an act.

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The eyewitness said, “The situation escalated when Etim stood up from his chair and attempted to strangle his mother. Etim confronted his mother and accused her of causing the child’s death.”

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The victim reportedly broke free and attempted to flee, but Etim allegedly poured fuel on her and set her ablaze.

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Neighbours who witnessed the incident quickly intervened and succeeded in putting out the fire before rushing the victim to a hospital for medical attention.

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Confirming the incident, the Cross River State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said in a statement issued to journalists in Calabar on Wednesday that the incident occurred.

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He, however, disclosed that the command was making concerted efforts to apprehend the suspect, who is currently at large, to enable him to answer to the allegations against him.

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“The unfortunate incident did occur as alleged in the report. However, the Police Command is currently making concerted efforts to apprehend the suspect, who is presently at large, to enable him to answer to the allegations against him,” he said.

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Eitokpah stressed that further information would be communicated to the public once the suspect was apprehended and the facts of the matter were further established.

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