Advocacy group slams unconstitutional police raid in Oguta Imo state, calls for accountability and protection of religious freedoms
The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW) has strongly condemned a recent police operation in Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State, that targeted individuals associated with the traditional Agwu object, also known as Aghara or Charm. The group described the invasion as unconstitutional and a clear violation of religious freedom.
AfAW Director Leo Igwe stated that the police operation involved shootings, beatings, abuse, and property destruction, amounting to a misuse of law enforcement powers. “The Nigerian Constitution does not recognise ‘agwucraft’ or witchcraft as a crime. Accusations of witchcraft are themselves illegal,” Igwe emphasized. He called for accountability, urging that the officers involved be summoned, penalized, and retrained.
The incident reportedly escalated from a dispute involving Mr. Joseph Ottih, a 70-year-old resident whose family claims they were violently displaced and criminalized after refusing to remove the ritual object from their home. Video evidence shows heavily armed officers assaulting Mr. Ottih and his family, including female children, while destroying doors, windows, vehicles, and palm trees on the property.
Human rights advocates say this case highlights how witchcraft accusations can intersect with policing to fuel abuse and impunity. AfAW insisted that the accusers, not the accused, should face prosecution. Rights groups are now calling on the Imo State Police Command and federal authorities to investigate, compensate victims, and ensure law enforcement upholds constitutional protections rather than perpetuate unlawful beliefs.
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