A wave of shock and sorrow has swept through the Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State after a father allegedly poisoned his three young sons, following a disturbing “prophecy” that branded the children as wizards. The tragic event, which unfolded over the weekend, has ignited widespread outrage and renewed calls to address the dangers of superstition and child abuse in the region.
According to sources close to the family, the father—whose identity is being withheld pending ongoing investigations—became convinced that his children were the cause of his recent misfortunes after consulting a self-proclaimed prophet.
The prophet reportedly told the man that his sons, aged between 6 and 12, were possessed by evil spirits and responsible for his financial woes and ill health.
“He was a loving father before all this. No one expected he could do such a thing,” a neighbour, Mrs. Grace Ebiye, told reporters, her voice trembling with emotion.
The father allegedly laced the children’s evening meal with a poisonous substance. The boys reportedly fell ill shortly after eating and were rushed to a nearby clinic, where two of them were pronounced dead on arrival. The third child remains in critical condition, fighting for his life.
Community in Mourning
The incident has left the entire community reeling. Residents gathered at the family’s home, offering condolences and expressing disbelief at the turn of events.
Many have called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of both the father and the prophet whose words allegedly incited the crime.
“This is a wake-up call for all of us,” said Chief Boma Okolo, a respected community leader. “We cannot allow these dangerous beliefs to destroy our families and our future.”
Outrage and Calls for Action
Child rights organizations and advocacy groups have condemned the incident in the strongest terms, urging the government and religious leaders to intensify efforts to educate the public about the dangers of superstition and the importance of child protection.
The Bayelsa State Police Command has launched a full investigation, assuring the public that justice will be served. NGOs like Safe Child Initiative have called for urgent sensitization campaigns in rural communities. Religious leaders are being urged to speak out against harmful prophecies and practices.
The Growing Menace of “Witchcraft” Accusations
Sadly, this is not the first time such an incident has occurred in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region, where accusations of witchcraft and wizardry have led to violence against children.
Experts warn that poverty, lack of education, and the influence of unscrupulous spiritual leaders continue to fuel these tragic outcomes.
“We must break the cycle of ignorance and fear. Our children deserve protection, not persecution,” said Mrs. Ejiro Ogbonda, a child rights activist.
Quote of the Day
“Superstition is the poison of the mind; let us choose knowledge, compassion, and reason to guide our actions.”
As the community mourns and the nation grapples with the horror of this tragedy, one thing is clear: urgent action is needed to end the scourge of superstition-fueled violence. Authorities, civil society, and religious leaders must work together to protect the most vulnerable and ensure that no child ever suffers such a fate again.
