Brother kills sibling over witchcraft accusations in Rivers

A man identified as Nwalozie Chiwendu has allegedly killed his elder brother, Chidiebere Isaiah, following accusations that the victim was responsible for his misfortune through witchcraft in Ofeh community, Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The incident reportedly occurred at about 4 p.m. on Thursday. Residents said the suspect attacked his brother with a cutlass after accusing him of blocking his success.

Photos circulating online showed the victim with severe injuries. He was rushed to the hospital but died on the way.

The Youth President of the Ofeh community, Chinonso Chima, described the killing as tragic and shocking. He explained that the suspect fled the scene before residents could intervene.

“People called me about a fight between two brothers from the same compound. The younger one attacked the elder with a cutlass and ran away immediately after,” Chima said. “We tried to get the victim to the hospital, but he didn’t survive.”

Chima added that the matter has been reported to the police, while the community has been urged to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands. The deceased’s body has since been deposited in the mortuary.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the suspect allegedly carried out the attack over claims of witchcraft.

She noted that investigations are ongoing and that security operatives have launched a manhunt to apprehend the fleeing suspect and ensure he is brought to justice.