Mob Kills 80-Year-Old Man Over Witchcraft Allegation

On September 7, 2026, an elderly man named Ordue Ikye, believed to be over 80 years old, was allegedly beaten to death by a mob in Tse-Ikye, Gbemacha Council Ward, Mbavior, Mbasar, within the Gwer East local government area. Community members accused Ikye of causing the death of Aker Aleva, a man in his 30s, through witchcraft.

Aleva had complained of a headache after going out to watch and subsequently collapsed, dying shortly after being taken to a hospital in Ikpayongo. Following Aleva's death, community members confronted Ikye, who denied any involvement.

Despite some disagreement among the crowd, others began to beat him with logs, leading to his death from the injuries sustained. The Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW), led by Dr. Leo Igwe, reported the incident and urged the police to investigate the killing, protect Ikye's family, and prevent further witchcraft-related violence in the community.