Jigawa, 50 year old woman beaten to death over alleged witchcraft

A fifty year old woman identified as Furera Ibrahim has been beaten to death after she was accused of being a witch in the Kiyawa Local Government Area of Jigawa State. The tragic incident has renewed public concern about the persistence of harmful traditional beliefs, mob justice, and the growing number of violent cases linked to accusations of witchcraft in some rural communities.

Eyewitnesses who spoke to DAILY POST explained that the attack occurred on Tuesday at about 5.00 p.m. in Kwarin Shiddi, a settlement within Katuka Village. According to the witnesses, the situation began after relatives of a woman named Habiba, who had been bedridden for some time, sought assistance from a native doctor. During the consultation, the native doctor reportedly claimed that Furera was responsible for Habiba’s illness.

The accusation spread quickly among the relatives. About ten individuals, believed to be close family members of the sick woman, went directly to Furera’s home. Witnesses said that the group arrived in a state of anger. They entered her residence and attacked her with machetes and sticks. The assault continued until she collapsed and eventually died from the injuries she sustained.

Two of Furera’s sons were present during the attack. They attempted to shield their mother from the violent mob and pleaded for the attackers to stop. Instead, the attackers turned on them as well. The two men were beaten and left with severe injuries. They were later rushed to Shekoni Teaching Hospital for medical care. Their current conditions have not yet been officially disclosed.

The spokesperson of the Jigawa State Police Command, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, confirmed the incident in a statement to the press. He said that the police have begun a full investigation into the matter and added that efforts are underway to identify, track, and arrest everyone who participated in the attack. He assured the public that the command is committed to bringing all suspects to justice.

The Jigawa State Human Rights Network condemned the killing. The group described the incident as a grave violation of human rights and expressed concern about the rise of vigilante actions disguised as cultural or spiritual practices. The organisation stated that it will closely monitor the case and work with authorities to ensure that the perpetrators do not escape punishment.

Community members remain divided. Some residents have expressed fear, describing the environment as tense and unstable. Others have called for education and awareness programs to help eliminate dangerous beliefs that often lead to violence. Many have emphasised the need for stronger enforcement of laws to protect vulnerable individuals, particularly women and elderly people who are frequently targeted in witchcraft related accusations.