An elderly man, Ordue Ikye, over 80 years old, has died after being allegedly attacked by a mob in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, following accusations that he used witchcraft to cause the death of a younger relative. The incident occurred around 7pm on Sunday at Tse-Ikye, Gbemacha Council Ward, Mbavior, Mbasar, shortly after the death of Aker Aleva, a man believed to be in his 30s. According to the Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW), the community accused Ikye, who was related to Aleva, of causing his death through supernatural means.
Aleva had reportedly gone out to watch a football match and returned home complaining of a headache before collapsing. He was taken to a hospital in Ikpayongo, where he later died. Following his death, tensions rose in the community, and Ikye became the target of suspicion. AfAW disclosed the details in a petition addressed to the Benue State Commissioner of Police, urging an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ikye’s death.
The petition, signed by AfAW Director Dr. Leo Igwe, cited a confidential source — identified as Aleva’s son — who said he returned home on Sunday evening to find a group confronting his father. The crowd allegedly lit fires on both sides of Ikye and questioned him about Aleva’s death. Despite denying any involvement, Ikye was reportedly beaten with pieces of wood by some members of the mob. AfAW stated that the elderly man sustained fatal injuries during the attack and died as a result.
The organisation also named five individuals allegedly involved in the assault, including the community’s youth president. However, it emphasized that these allegations are based solely on information from the confidential witness and must be verified through an independent police inquiry. After Ikye’s death, an ambulance was called, and his body was transported to Ikpayongo mortuary for preservation.
AfAW reported that a community meeting was held afterward, but Ikye’s death was not discussed. The deceased’s son, who tried to record part of the gathering, had his phone seized, and photos and videos were allegedly deleted. The group is calling for a thorough police investigation, protection of witnesses and the family, and prosecution of those found responsible.
AfAW expressed deep concern over the recurring pattern of using unexplained illness or death as justification for accusing people of witchcraft and subjecting them to violent mob justice. The organization urged the Benue State Police Command to take preventive measures against future attacks and ensure justice is served in this case. This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for awareness, legal protection, and community education to prevent further loss of life due to baseless superstition.
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