A horrific tragedy shook Ojuah community in Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State on Friday, August 14, 2026, when a man identified as Emmanuel Etim allegedly set his biological mother, Mrs. Atim Eyo, on fire after accusing her of killing his daughter through witchcraft.

The suspect, who reportedly blamed his mother for the sudden death of his child earlier that day, traveled to her residence armed with a four-litre jerrycan of fuel and a cigarette lighter.

According to an eyewitness who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Etim confronted his mother immediately upon arrival, demanding to know why she targeted his daughter.

"The situation rapidly escalated when Etim stood up from his chair and attempted to strangle his mother," the eyewitness stated. "The elderly woman managed to break free and tried to run for her life, but he chased her, poured petrol on her, and set her ablaze."

Terrified neighbors rushed to the scene, successfully extinguished the flames, and hurried the severely injured matriarch to a nearby hospital, where she is currently receiving emergency medical treatment.

The Cross River State Police Command has officially launched a manhunt for the suspect. In a statement released to journalists in Calabar on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, the State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident and declared that the suspect remains at large.

"The unfortunate incident did occur as alleged in the report," ASP Eitokpah stated. "However, the Police Command is currently making concerted efforts to apprehend the suspect, who is presently at large, to enable him to answer to the allegations against him."

The police spokesperson added that further updates will be communicated to the public as soon as the suspect is in custody and a full investigation is concluded.