7-year-old victim hospitalized with severe burns after witchcraft accusation

A woman in Bauchi State has been arrested for allegedly burning the private parts of her seven-year-old stepdaughter with a hot knife after accusing the child of witchcraft.

The victim, identified only as Habiba for safety reasons, is currently receiving treatment at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), where doctors are battling to manage severe burns that have spread to her lower body.

The attack reportedly occurred in Magama-Gumau, Toro Local Government Area, when the suspect, Zuwaira Ibrahim, accused the child of being a witch after her own daughter claimed to have seen Habiba in a gathering of “witches.”

According to community activist Kabiru Mohammed Abdulkadir, the matter was first taken to a local man for “confirmation,” who declared the child was not a witch. However, Zuwaira allegedly rejected the verdict, heated a knife, and pressed it against the girl’s private parts.

“It was her loud cries that attracted neighbours. When we intervened, we found her in terrible condition and insisted the matter be reported to the police,” Abdulkadir said.

A disturbing video obtained by reporters showed the child’s private parts and thighs badly burnt, with the injuries already festering. Neighbours also reported that the wounds produced a foul odour, making it difficult for the victim to pass urine or stool.

Police in Bauchi confirmed the arrest of the suspect, who is now in custody.

The case has sparked outrage in the community, with child rights activists calling for justice and stronger enforcement of laws against child abuse linked to witchcraft accusations.