Tragedy struck in Magama Gumau, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, after a woman, identified as Suwaira Ibrahim, allegedly burnt the private part of her husband’s younger sister following accusations of witchcraft.
Cases of violence against children over witchcraft allegations remain a recurring problem in some parts of Nigeria, especially in rural communities where harmful traditional beliefs still hold sway.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly raised concerns about the rising number of minors tortured, abandoned, or killed over unfounded claims of sorcery.
In many cases, children are subjected to inhumane treatment such as burning, starvation, or beating, often with the complicity of family members or community leaders.
The Child Rights Act criminalises such practices and guarantees the protection of children against abuse, but enforcement has remained weak in many states.
It was gathered on Thursday that the victim, a seven-year-old (name withheld), was left in severe pain after she was brutalised by Suwaira.
Narrating the ordeal, an activist in the community, Kabiru Abdulkadir, told journalists that the incident started when Suwaira’s child claimed to have seen the victim among a group of witches.
According to him, the girl was taken to a man to confirm the allegation.