Tension gripped Amasiri in Afikpo North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State as members of the Umuada, a revered women’s group in the community, paraded a man suspected to be behind a wave of mysterious deaths among prominent individuals. The suspect, described locally as a fetish practitioner, reportedly confessed to orchestrating spiritual attacks on successful people within the area.
Witnesses said the suspect was apprehended after community suspicions grew over the strange and sudden deaths of several affluent and influential members of Amasiri. He was allegedly found with items believed to be charms, and after intense community questioning, reportedly confessed to “spiritually pulling down” those he envied.
Members of the Umuada, who have historically played powerful roles in upholding moral justice and protecting the integrity of the village, took the unusual step of publicly parading the man through major parts of the town. Clad in symbolic white and red wrappers, they chanted denunciations and invoked ancestral spirits as they marched.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of intense emotional outburst during the parade, as family members of deceased victims joined the procession, demanding justice and spiritual cleansing of the land. The suspect, who was visibly shaken, reportedly begged for mercy while being led around the community square.
Local sources say this is not the first time the community has had to deal with mysterious deaths tied to suspected spiritual manipulation. Elders have now vowed to conduct deeper traditional investigations and seek restitution from any other culprits involved.
Security agencies in Ebonyi have since been notified. The Ebonyi State Police Command is yet to issue an official statement, but sources confirm that the suspect may be handed over for further interrogation and possible prosecution once traditional rites are concluded.
This dramatic episode has reignited debates around the clash between traditional justice and formal legal frameworks, with many calling for greater action against occult practices used for malicious purposes.
