Elderly Man Subjected to Coffin Torture in Cross River Over Witchcraft Claims
A deeply disturbing incident has shocked the nation as authorities in Cross River State launch an intensive investigation into a viral video showing an elderly man being forced into a coffin alongside a corpse. The brutal assault occurred in Bekwarra Local Government Area, where the victim was accused of using witchcraft to kill the deceased.
Violent Assault Captured on Video
The horrifying footage, which surfaced online on November 19, 2025, shows the elderly man being violently assaulted by a group of youths while voices speaking the Bekwarra language are heard in the background. According to reports, the youths forced the man into the coffin containing the corpse and threatened to bury him alive if he didn't confess to the witchcraft allegations. The assailants insisted that the elderly man was responsible for the death through supernatural means, demonstrating the persistence of dangerous superstitions in some communities.
Official Response and Investigation Challenges
In response to the public outrage, Hon. Egbung, Odama Egbung, the Acting Chairman of Bekwarra Local Government Area, immediately contacted all security heads across the local government after the footage began circulating. The brutality seen in the video prompted urgent action to verify the authenticity of the recording and identify those responsible. However, preliminary investigations have faced significant challenges. Security heads across the local government have not been able to identify the specific ward, village, or community where the incident occurred. The acting chairman has instructed Ward Relations Officers of all political wards to collaborate with clan heads, chiefs, and community youth leaders to identify both the victim and the perpetrators.
Ongoing Efforts to Uncover the Truth
While investigations continue, forensic experts are tracing the source and authenticity of the viral video. Social media handles of individuals who shared the content have been documented for questioning as part of the investigation into the source. The authorities are appealing to the public for assistance, urging anyone with firsthand information about the assault to come forward. Residents have been asked to contact their ward relations officer or visit the Divisional Police Headquarters in Abuochiche with any useful information. The public has been urged to remain calm and vigilant while reporting any suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
