AKAMKPA, Nigeria — A quiet community in Cross River State has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of an elderly woman, Mrs. Atim Akposi (also known as Atim Eyo), who succumbed to severe burn injuries after her son allegedly doused her in petrol and set her on fire over accusations of witchcraft.
The suspect, identified as Emmanuel Akposi, is currently on the run and has been declared wanted by the police after fleeing the scene of the incident in Ojo community, Akamkpa Local Government Area.
A Deadly Escalation
The violent attack occurred on Friday, August 14, following years of escalating domestic tension. According to family members, Emmanuel had long harbored resentment against his mother, repeatedly accusing her of using dark magic to cause the death of his child.
The victim’s eldest son, Eyo Akposi, revealed that the suspect’s suspicions were fueled by local religious leaders. Emmanuel reportedly claimed that several pastors had told him his mother was directly responsible for his child's demise.
Eyo disclosed that the suspect had confronted and threatened their mother multiple times in the past. The hostility culminated on Friday when Emmanuel allegedly breached her bedroom, attempted to strangle her, and violently struck her to the ground when she resisted. He then reportedly doused the helpless elderly woman with fuel, ignited the flames, and fled into hiding.
Failed Battle for Survival
Alerted by the victim's screams, neighbors rushed to the scene to extinguish the fire and immediately transported her to the Ojo community health centre. As her condition deteriorated, she was transferred to Akamkpa General Hospital before being rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) on the advice of family members.
Despite intensive emergency medical care, Mrs. Akposi passed away from her extensive burn injuries in the early hours of Monday.
Police Launch Manhunt
The horrific crime has been formally reported to the Uyanga Divisional Police Station in Akamkpa. Law enforcement authorities have launched a full-scale investigation and deployed a manhunt team to track down and arrest the fleeing suspect. Community leaders and family members continue to appeal to the public for any information that could lead to Emmanuel's arrest, demanding justice for the late matriarch.
