By Stanley Okehie
An appeal has gone to the traditional ruler of Umulogho Autonomous Community in Obowo Local Government Area, Eze Patrick Uwalaka to lift the two-year banishment imposed on one of his cabinet members Mr. Mark Isikaku of Umuadara Village.
The Director of the humanist organization, Advocacy for Alleged Witches (AfAW), Dr. Leo Igwe made the appeal when he led other advocates on a courtesy visit to the palace of the traditional ruler.
Mr. Isikaku was accused of killing a lawyer and prominent son of the area, Mr. Lawrence Ohakpo using a charm over a boundary dispute, a claim Isikaku described as false and unfounded.
Appealing to the traditional ruler of Umulogho Autonomous Community to cancel the banishment, Dr. Igwe explained that the visit was part of the activities lined up to mark World Day Against Witch Hunts.
He said the essence was to rally support for victims of false accusations and ostracisation.
He thanked Eze Uwalaka for his sterling leadership qualities, especially the manner in which he is handling the matter, emphasizing that accusations are used to oppress and justify the abuse of people who need care.
He said religion, tradition and culture are often deployed to legitimize witch-hunting and witchcraft allegations, adding that superstition affects both victims and victimizers.
He said witchcraft allegations are against the law, urging the accused to always reach out to and report to the appropriate authorities to ensure they get justice.
Dr. Igwe later presented an AfAW T-shirt to the traditional ruler as a symbol of gratitude and support for his community, urging him to lift the ban on Mr. Isikaku and other victims of false accusations.
The traditional ruler of Umulogho Autonomous Community, Eze Patrick Uwalaka said Mr. Isikaku’s attitude escalated the matter, urging citizens to learn to control their temper.
He promised to revisit the matter and ensure that justice is served, emphasizing the importance of peace in community development.
When AfAW visited Mr. Mark Isikaku, who was already in the pains of isolation, he maintained his innocence, questioning how he could have taken the life of the late Ohakpo, who had already survived two heart surgeries.
In an emotion-laden voice, the 92-year-old Isikaku appealed for the ban to be lifted to enable him to live his life without restriction.