Dr. Amina Onyewuchi, Chairperson of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in Benue State, has advised Nigerians to stop attributing illnesses to witchcraft and instead seek medical care when unwell. Dr. Onyewuchi, a consultant surgeon at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, expressed concern over the widespread tendency among Nigerians to associate health issues with supernatural causes.
Speaking at an advocacy lecture organized by the Advocacy for Alleged Witches in collaboration with the Faculty of Social Sciences at Benue State University, Onyewuchi highlighted the dangers of neglecting medical intervention due to superstitious beliefs.
“Most illnesses you glorify as witchcraft are not,” Onyewuchi stated. “Go to the hospitals anytime you have ill health issues. Even mad people are treated in the hospital. Don’t neglect the role of the hospital when you are sick.”
The lecture, held at the university’s Faculty Lecture Theater Hall, addressed societal superstitions surrounding witchcraft. Onyewuchi urged that advocacy efforts be extended to rural areas, where such beliefs are more prevalent.
Professor Benjamin Ahule, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, criticized some religious leaders for perpetuating superstitions to manipulate their followers.
Dr. Leo Igwe, Director of the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, revealed that the organization has intervened in over 150 cases of witchcraft accusations across Nigeria. Seven of these cases originated in Benue State.
“We have intervened in over 150 cases of people accused of witchcraft across the country,” Igwe said. “Three cases are from Adamawa, one each from Anambra and Enugu, and two from Benue. One Benue case was withdrawn for settlement.”
He condemned the inhumane treatment often inflicted on individuals accused of witchcraft, which has led to the death of several victims. The organization is actively prosecuting some cases in court, with the goal of holding perpetrators accountable.
Dr. Igwe emphasized the need to challenge superstitions and educate society about the realities of witchcraft accusations.
“We hope to challenge believers, persuade, and prickle their consciences. We aim to get them to rethink their witchcraft beliefs, assumptions, and suppositions,” he said.
The advocacy group also seeks to support victims and their families by encouraging them to speak out and access psychosocial and material aid. “The Advocacy for Alleged Witches exists to support and empower you,” Dr. Igwe concluded, urging the public to report cases of witchcraft accusations for intervention and support.
