Nigerian Man Graduates University 13 Years After Witchcraft Accusation and Attack
In a powerful story of resilience and redemption, a young Nigerian man, Asuquo Edet, has graduated from Akwa Ibom State University, marking a triumphant milestone 13 years after he was accused of using witchcraft to kill his father, brutally attacked, and left for dead in the bush. The graduation, celebrated in April 2026, underscores a journey from near-fatal violence to academic achievement, facilitated by the intervention of Danish aid workers.
A Brutal Attack Rooted in Superstition
The incident dates back to 2014 in Ikon-Edikor, Udung Uko Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. Asuquo's father, who had been ill for several months, welcomed him home before passing away a few days later. However, this reunion was overshadowed by deep-seated superstition. For over three years prior, Asuquo had been abandoned on the streets by his father, influenced by a soothsayer brought by his stepmother. The soothsayer falsely claimed Asuquo was a wizard responsible for the family's illness, poverty, and misfortune.
Following his father's death, the situation escalated violently. Hoodlums, led by his stepbrothers, launched a vicious attack on Asuquo. They assaulted him with machetes, wire, horsewhips, rods, and spine-sticks, demanding to know why he had "killed" his father. In a horrific turn, a machete was smashed into his head, causing him to collapse. Believing he was dead, the attackers carried his body and discarded it in the bushes.
Rescue and Recovery by Danish Aid Workers
Miraculously, Asuquo survived the attack. He was discovered and rescued by Danish aid worker Anja Ringgren Love and her husband, David. They reported the case to the police and rushed him to the hospital for urgent medical care. Anja shared Asuquo's story on Facebook on April 11, 2026, recounting the traumatic experience and his subsequent achievements.
She described Asuquo as a young teenager at the time of the rescue, known for being the brightest student in his class and for his kindness, humility, and willingness to help others. His life had been good until his mother died and his father remarried, leading to rejection by his stepmother, who blamed him for the family's hardships. Anja highlighted a poignant moment during the rescue: despite his severe injuries, Asuquo was more concerned about whether she had enough water to drink, showcasing his selfless character.
Academic Excellence and Inspiration
After the rescue, Asuquo's journey to recovery was paralleled by academic success. Under the care of Land of Hope, the organization run by Anja and David, he excelled in his studies. Year after year, he took first place in his class throughout secondary school and high school, graduating with one of the highest scores. His principal was so impressed that he did not want to let him go, recognizing his calm, kind, and hopeful demeanor.
Now, 13 years after the attack, Asuquo has earned a Bachelor of Science in Genetics and Biotechnology from Akwa Ibom State University. Anja expressed immense pride upon receiving his certificate, noting that he has become an inspiration to the children and staff at Land of Hope. She emphasized that his story challenges harmful superstitions, stating, "To anyone who claims that children are witches, shame on you. To any pastor who spreads these beliefs, shame on you!"
A Call for Justice and Change
Anja and David contacted the media after the rescue, leading to Asuquo's story being published in several newspapers to raise awareness and seek justice. They aimed to highlight the dangers of witchcraft accusations and the violence they can incite, particularly against vulnerable individuals like children, the elderly, or those with disabilities or mental health challenges.
In her Facebook post, Anja congratulated Asuquo, calling him an inspiration to the world and expressing confidence that he will help lead the way for a new generation. She also thanked supporters of Land of Hope, acknowledging that the achievements of children like Asuquo are made possible through collective effort. Reflecting on their bond, she said, "I did not give birth to Asuquo. But he is and will always be my son."
This story serves as a stark reminder of the impact of superstition and the power of compassion and education in overcoming adversity. Asuquo Edet's graduation is not just a personal victory but a beacon of hope for others facing similar struggles in Nigeria and beyond.
