Witchcraft accusations rise in Bauchi State Nigeria amid human rights abuses

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) and the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AFAW) have voiced alarm over the growing number of witchcraft accusations against women in Bauchi State, Nigeria, a trend that reflects a disturbing wave of witch‑hunting in the region.

At a recent round‑table in the Tafawa Balewa local government area, AFAW Director Dr. Leo Igwe condemned the ongoing persecution of women and children on the basis of witchcraft allegations, calling it a deep‑rooted human‑rights violation. He pointed out that Bauchi State is a hotspot for abuses linked to witchcraft beliefs and ritual attacks, with most victims being poor, elderly, or children who lack the means to defend themselves. Despite modernization, these abuses persist because victims receive little justice.

Igwe praised FIDA, the National Human Rights Commission, and the police for prosecuting some perpetrators of witch‑hunts, but he stressed the need for stronger advocacy, community education, and accountability. He urged people not to wait until they or their relatives are accused before speaking out, noting that anyone can become a victim.

FIDA Bauchi Branch Chairperson Hauwa Ahmad Abubakar attributed the rise in accusations to ignorance, poverty, and a lack of awareness of legal rights. She clarified that Nigerian law contains no provision for witchcraft and that anyone who harms or kills another person over such claims will be prosecuted. Abubakar disclosed that FIDA Bauchi has handled at least ten witchcraft‑related abuse cases in recent months. She called on religious and community leaders to condemn the practice more forcefully, emphasizing that neither Islam nor Christianity supports witchcraft accusations.

The discussion, dedicated to the memory of several victims of witchcraft accusations in Bauchi, underscored the need for collective action. As Igwe remarked, it is time for Africa to join the rest of the world in making witch‑hunting a thing of the past. The collaboration between FIDA and AFAW aims to raise awareness, promote justice for victims, and ultimately create a society where such abuses are no longer tolerated.