Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Chinagorom Ugwu
Published on 2024-02-25 18:06:52
Nneka Uzor, a widow from Anambra State, recently returned to her community after being banished on grounds of witchcraft. She hails from Umunankwo Community in Ogbaru Local Government Area. In a disturbing incident captured in a video, Nneka was forcibly led out of the community amidst verbal abuse and physical assault by the community members. This heinous act was perpetrated by her three brothers – Lazarus Uzor, Anozie Uzor, and Valentine Okwuosa. Consequently, the brothers were apprehended and brought before the Children, Sexual, and Gender-Based Violence Court in Awka.
The intervention of the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare in Anambra State, Ify Obinabo, played a crucial role in facilitating the arrest and arraignment of the suspects. Following the involvement of the commissioner and the traditional ruler of the community, Fidelis Nsofor, Nneka was able to return to Umunankwo and reconcile with the villagers in January.
Recently, Nneka Uzor received a self-contained apartment with the assistance of Advocacy for Alleged Witches, an organization dedicated to ending witch persecution in Africa. The group’s Director, Leo Igwe, explained that they extended support to Nneka after learning about her struggles upon returning to the community. Previously, she had been staying with a relative and was left in a vulnerable state with no means of livelihood. The group raised funds to secure the apartment for her, ensuring she had a safe and stable living environment.
Expressing her gratitude and joy, Nneka shared a video of her new apartment with Leo Igwe. Overwhelmed with emotion, she expressed her relief at finally having a place to call her own. She thanked the members of the advocacy group for their generosity, acknowledging that they had come to her aid during a time of desperate need.
This heartwarming gesture not only provided Nneka with a physical shelter but also restored her hope and dignity. It symbolizes a step towards healing and empowerment for a woman who had faced discrimination and ostracization. Thanks to the collective efforts of Advocacy for Alleged Witches and the support received from the community and authorities, Nneka Uzor can now begin anew in a safe and welcoming environment.
The story of Nneka Uzor serves as a poignant reminder of the injustices faced by marginalized individuals, particularly women, in society. It highlights the importance of solidarity, empathy, and intervention in combating harmful traditional beliefs and practices. By standing up against witch persecution and supporting survivors like Nneka, we move closer to a more inclusive and compassionate world.
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