Update: Woman set ablaze by her son over witchcraft allegations d!es in Cross River

The woman who was set ablaze by her son in Cross River State has d!ed.

LIB reported that the incident occurred on Friday, August 14, 2026, in Ojuah community, Akamkpa Local Government Area of the state. 

The deceased, Mrs. Atim Etim, was accused of witchcraft by her son, Emmanuel Etim. He blamed her for his daughter’s d3ath.

It was gathered that Etim travelled to his mother’s residence carrying about four liters of fuel and a lighter.

Etim arrived at his mother’s house following the d3ath of his daughter earlier that day. 

He confronted his mother, accusing her of causing the child’s d3ath and demanding to know what he had done to her to warrant such an act.

The situation escalated when Etim stood up from his chair and attempted to strangle her.

As the victim shouted for help, one of her daughters intervened and struggled with Etim, forcing him to release their mother.

The victim, upon breaking free, attempted to flee. However, Etim poured fuel on her and set her ablaze.

Neighbours who witnessed the incident quickly intervened and succeeded in putting out the fire before rushing the victim to a hospital for medical attention. 

However, while she was moved to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for proper treatment, she passed away.

The spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, who confirmed the incident said efforts are on ground to track and arrest the suspect who is now at large.

“Further information will be communicated to the public as soon as the suspect is apprehended and the facts of the matter are further established,” he added.