A man identified as Emmanuel Etim has allegedly set his mother, Mrs. Atim Eyo, ablaze after accusing her of being responsible for the death of his daughter in Ojuah, Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The incident reportedly occurred on August 14, 2026, following the death of Etim’s daughter earlier that day.
According to an eyewitness, Etim allegedly arrived at his mother’s residence carrying about four litres of petrol and a lighter. He reportedly confronted her and accused her of causing the death of his child through witchcraft.
The confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical altercation, during which Etim allegedly attempted to strangle his mother. The victim, however, managed to break free and attempted to escape. The suspect allegedly pursued her, poured petrol on her and set her ablaze.
The woman reportedly sustained serious burns before neighbours intervened, extinguished the fire and rushed her to a hospital for medical treatment.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the command was making efforts to apprehend the suspect, who is currently at large.
“The unfortunate incident did occur as reported. The Police Command is making concerted efforts to apprehend the suspect to answer to the allegations against him,” Eitokpah said.
The police spokesperson added that further information would be released after the suspect’s arrest and the completion of preliminary investigations.
The incident has reportedly generated concern in the community, particularly over the continued use of witchcraft allegations to justify violence against vulnerable family members.
Police authorities have urged members of the public with information on the whereabouts of the suspect to assist the investigation and ensure that he is brought before the appropriate authorities.