Two (2) persons have been buried alive by the youths from Konshisha local Government area in Benue over witchcraft allegations. This is a horrifying incident that highlights the dangers of superstition and mob justice in our society today.
According to reports, the people of the community accused the two persons of witchcraft because of a thunder strike that affected one Henry Ihwakaa, his wife, and a two-week-old child who live in the community. It is tragic that such a natural phenomenon has been attributed to witchcraft, and even more disturbing that this accusation resulted in such a brutal punishment.
Mr. Ihwakaa, one of the victims, is said to be the father of one Henry in the community. He was accused by the youths of bewitching people with thunderstorms in the area any time it rains. It is unfortunate that such baseless accusations can lead to such heinous acts of violence.
According to an eyewitness, the youth of the community mobilized and attacked Ihwakaa and his alleged partner who was also accused of witchcraft, and buried them alive in a shallow grave. This is a barbaric and inhumane act that cannot be justified under any circumstances.
An elder in the community, Engr Baba Agan, reported the incident to the police in Konshisha local government; which made the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), mobilized his men to the scene of the incident. However, upon arrival, the two persons have already died in the grave and their bodies were exhumed. It is deeply disturbing that such acts of violence and vigilantism continue to occur in our society, and it is imperative that we take steps to address the root causes of these issues.