A seven-year-old girl in Magama Gumau, Toro Local Government Area of A seven-year-old girl in Magama Gumau, Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, is hospitalized with severe burns after her brother’s wife allegedly burnt her private part with a hot spoon over accusations of witchcraft.
The suspect, Suwaira Ibrahim, reportedly acted after her own child accused the girl, identified as Zuwaira, of witchcraft. A community leader, Kabiru Mohammed Abdulkadir, said a local man confirmed the girl was not involved in witchcraft.
Despite this, Suwaira reportedly heated a spoon over a fire and burnt the girl’s private area, claiming the girl’s pain would prove she was not a witch.
Neighbours intervened after hearing the girl’s screams and insisted the case be reported to the police.
Abdulkadir added that the injuries now cause the girl difficulty in passing urine and stool, and a foul odor has spread through the household.
The girl is receiving treatment at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi.
Video footage shows extensive burns on her private parts and thighs. The victim said her hands were tied before the attack, carried out by Suwaira and two of her children.
The Bauchi State Police Public Relations Officer CSP Ahmed Wakil confirmed the case was reported at Toro Division and referred to state headquarters for investigation and prosecution.
He said some community members initially wanted to cover up the incident, but police insisted on reporting and action.
