A Bauchi woman identified as Suwaira Ibrahim, allegedly burnt the private part of her husband’s 7-year-old sister following accusations of witchcraft.
According to punch, the incident which occurred in Magama Gumau, Toro Local Government Area of the state, left the girl in severe pain and fighting for her life.
Narrating the ordeal, an activist in the community, Kabiru Abdulkadir, told journalists that Suwaira’s child claimed to have seen the victim among a group of witches.
The girl was taken to a man who confirmed that the minor is not a witch.
“The man told them that she is not a witch, but Suwaira disagreed with the confirmation. They returned home and placed a knife or spoon on fire, which they used to burn the child’s private part, believing that if she was truly a witch, she would not feel pain. It was her loud cries that attracted neighbours. When we got there, we insisted that the case be reported to the police,” Abdulkadir said.
Abdulkadir said the child’s private parts and thighs were severely burnt, adding that the injuries left her unable to pass urine or stool properly, while the stench from the wound had made life unbearable for the household.
The victim was later rushed to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, where she is currently receiving treatment.
The spokesperson of the Bauchi State Police Command, Ahmed Mohammed Wakil, who confirmed the incident said the case was reported at the Toro Divisional Headquarters before being referred to the State Command for proper investigation.
“We are aware of it. Initially, some people wanted to cover up the case and handle it at the community level, but we insisted it should be reported. The case has been referred to the State Headquarters for further investigation and prosecution. We will issue a detailed statement once we receive full reports,” the PPRO said.
