The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AFAW), a non-governmental organization dedicated to combating witchcraft-related abuses, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting survivors of these horrific acts. During the 2025 International Day Against Witch Hunts held in Owerri, Nigeria, AFAW’s National Director, Leo Igwe, emphasized the organization’s multi-pronged approach to assisting victims. This includes providing humanitarian aid such as seed money for businesses, temporary housing, facilitating police intervention, and offering legal representation to ensure justice is served. AFAW recognizes the deep-seated psychological trauma, social stigma, and physical pain inflicted upon victims, and aims to provide comprehensive support for their recovery and reintegration into society. The overarching mission is to challenge the superstitious beliefs that fuel these crimes and create a safer environment for those vulnerable to such accusations.
Central to AFAW’s advocacy is the dismantling of harmful misconceptions associated with witchcraft beliefs. Igwe highlighted the urgency of addressing prevalent notions, such as the belief that human sacrifice can generate wealth or that individuals possess the ability to shapeshift into animals to inflict harm. These unfounded beliefs create a climate of fear and suspicion, leading to violence and injustice. AFAW advocates for stricter regulation of religious leaders and spiritualists who exploit these fears and perpetuate harmful narratives through unsubstantiated claims of supernatural abilities. By holding these individuals accountable, AFAW aims to curb the spread of dangerous ideologies that incite violence and persecution.
Local authorities and community leaders are also crucial partners in this fight against witch hunts. Eze Uboegbulam Clinton, the traditional ruler of Umuoronronjo autonomous community in Owerri, voiced his condemnation of witchcraft accusations and the resulting violence, including killings, lynching, beatings, and banishment. He pledged his ongoing support for AFAW’s campaign and committed to holding perpetrators accountable. This commitment from influential figures within the community is essential for creating a cultural shift away from superstitious beliefs and promoting a society that upholds the rights and safety of all its members.
The personal testimony of survivors underscores the devastating impact of witchcraft accusations. 87-year-old Regina Onuoha bravely shared her harrowing experience, highlighting the vulnerability of often marginalized individuals who become targets of these accusations. Her powerful account serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of these beliefs and reinforces the need for robust legal frameworks to protect vulnerable members of society. Mrs. Onuoha’s plea for stricter laws reflects a broader call for systemic change to address the root causes of witchcraft-related violence and prevent future tragedies.
While acknowledging the lack of empirical evidence to support the existence of witchcraft as conventionally understood, Pastor Chrysolite Okonkwo cautioned against using such skepticism to justify harmful actions. He emphasized the importance of respecting human dignity and refraining from labeling individuals as witches, thereby contributing to their persecution. This nuanced perspective acknowledges the complexities of belief systems while upholding the fundamental principle of non-violence and respect for all individuals. It highlights the responsibility of religious leaders and community members to foster tolerance and understanding, even in the face of differing worldviews.
In conclusion, AFAW’s continued efforts to combat witchcraft-related abuses encompass a comprehensive strategy that combines humanitarian aid, advocacy for legal reforms, community engagement, and challenging harmful misconceptions. The organization’s work emphasizes the importance of supporting survivors, holding perpetrators accountable, and fostering a culture of respect and understanding. The stories of survivors like Mrs. Onuoha serve as powerful reminders of the human cost of these beliefs, while the commitment of community leaders like Eze Uboegbulam Clinton offers hope for a future free from the fear and violence associated with witchcraft accusations. The ongoing dialogue between diverse perspectives, as exemplified by Pastor Okonkwo’s remarks, underscores the need for nuanced approaches that respect individual beliefs while upholding fundamental human rights. AFAW’s tireless work is crucial in the fight to eradicate these harmful practices and create a safer, more just society for all.
