The Ebonyi State Police Command has nabbed a self-acclaimed prophet, Nwankpu James, over alleged abuse and humiliation of a child accused of witchcraft.
Nwankpu was arrested followed the prophet actions in a viral video, where the child was being maltreated in an abusive and inhuman manner.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Joshua Ukandu.
According to Ukandu, the incident was reported in Isohumini Agbaja community, Izzi Local Government Area of the state.
The police, in reaction to the video, traced the suspect to the community where he was arrested alongside the parents of the child.
“The operatives of the Command were immediately directed to ensure the arrest of the suspect and the rescue of the child.
“Acting on the directive, operatives traced the suspect and the child’s parents to Isohumini Agbaja Community in Izzi Local Government Area, where the suspect was arrested and the child successfully rescued.
“The suspect is currently in our custody as investigations into the incident continue,” Ukandu wrote.
A resident in the area, Mr Mather Nwachukwu, alleged that the child had been suffering from frequent illness, prompting her parents to seek spiritual intervention from the prophet.
The prophet was, however, alleged to have accused the child of witchcraft and subjected her to humiliating practices in the guise of deliverance.
Meanwhile, the rescued child has been admitted to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (FETHA) for immediate medical attention.
Ukandu reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly children, and strongly warned against all forms of child abuse and inhumane acts.