In the markets of Port Harcourt and the villages across Rivers State, the fear of being called a witch is a real and deadly threat for many, especially the elderly and vulnerable. A new report by activist Leo Igwe, titled 'Policing Witch killing and Justice System in Rivers State', puts a spotlight on this grim reality that many here live with every day. It's a conversation that happens in hushed tones, a story of fear that official reports often miss.
For families who have lost loved ones to mob violence, the report's focus is a painful reminder of justice denied. When someone is accused of witchcraft, the response is often swift and brutal, carried out by neighbors or even relatives. The police and courts, the report suggests, frequently fail to intervene or hold anyone accountable, leaving communities to grapple with trauma and impunity.
This isn't just about superstition; it's about survival for the poorest and most marginalized. An old woman living alone, a person with a disability, or someone seen as different can become a target. The accusation itself can be a death sentence, tearing apart the social fabric of villages and forcing families to choose sides in a deadly conflict.
Leo Igwe's work connects these local tragedies to a broken system. The report implies that when the police do not properly investigate these killings and the courts do not prosecute the perpetrators, it sends a message that some lives are worth less than others. This failure of the justice system means there is no deterrent, and the cycle of violence continues unchecked.
People here know that poverty, lack of education, and poor healthcare often fuel these accusations. When a child falls sick or a crop fails, finding a scapegoat can feel easier than confronting complex, systemic problems. The report underscores how these social issues are directly linked to the violence, making witch killing a symptom of deeper community distress.
The justice system's inaction has a chilling effect. Survivors and families of victims are often too afraid to speak out, fearing retaliation or being labeled themselves. This silence allows the perpetrators to operate with confidence, knowing they are unlikely to face any legal consequences for their actions.
Addressing this crisis requires more than just condemning the acts. It demands a community-wide reckoning and a justice system that works for everyone, not just the powerful. Police need training to treat these cases as serious crimes, and local leaders must be held accountable for preventing mob violence before it starts.
The path forward is difficult, but the report by Leo Igwe insists that change is possible. It calls for a justice system that protects the vulnerable and affirms that every life has value, a message that resonates deeply in communities across Rivers State tired of living in fear.
