The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child has indicted Nigeria over widespread abuses of children accused of witchcraft, ordering the Federal Government to take urgent corrective measures and report back within 180 days.
In its decision on Communication No. 0017/Com/001/2021, was adopted during its 46th Ordinary Session in December 2025 and released to newsmen in Uyo on Tuesday.
The Committee upheld a petition filed by Child Rights and Rehabilitation Network, Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa, and the Centre for Human Rights, finding Nigeria culpable of failing to protect vulnerable children.
The ruling was sequel to disturbing evidence presented by the petitioners, detailing how children, some as young as three, were subjected to torture, abandonment, starvation, and killings after being branded as witches by family members, religious leaders, and communities.
The Committee held that such practices constitute grave violations of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, stressing that cultural or religious beliefs cannot be used to justify abuse or neglect.
“We commend the Committee for its important work in addressing complex and deeply rooted violations affecting vulnerable children, including those subjected to harmful practices such as witchcraft accusations,” said Michael Gyan Nyarko.
The Committee further directed Nigeria to outline concrete legal, social, and institutional steps it will adopt to prevent further abuses and ensure protection, rehabilitation, and reintegration of affected children.
“I have been campaigning for the rights of these children since 2000, drawing attention to the federal government without being heard. This victory proves that witchcraft accusation is real, but witchcraft itself is not real,” said Sam Ikpe Itauma.
He described the decision as a watershed moment in child rights protection across Africa, setting a precedent that harmful traditional practices must give way to internationally recognized human rights standards.
Itauma said the ruling formally recognizes witchcraft accusations against children as a serious human rights violation, and places a clear obligation on Nigeria to act decisively.
“This ruling is not just about Nigeria; it sends a strong message across the continent that harmful practices against children will no longer be tolerated under any guise,” a child rights advocate involved in the case said.
Apart from its legal implications, the ruling is expected to open pathways for justice, particularly for children who have suffered stigma, abuse, and social exclusion due to such accusations.
“This decision restores hope to thousands of children who have been silenced by fear and stigma, and it challenges institutions to finally act in their best interest,” a child right advocate noted.
