A man has been banished from Okwulaga Afaraukwu Ibeku in Umuahia, Abia State. The community expelled him after he was reportedly caught burying a charm on farmland. The incident occurred on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at Umuizu. Youths of the community apprehended him. They took him to the palace of the traditional ruler. The ruler condemned the act. He warned residents against activities that threaten lives and peace. The man was then banished.
Traditional justice systems in Igboland have long dealt with allegations of witchcraft and charm use. In 2019, a woman was banished from her community in Enugu over similar accusations. In 2020, another case emerged in Anambra. The practice persists despite Nigeria’s formal legal system. Communities often act swiftly. They see banishment as a way to protect themselves. But it bypasses due process. The police are rarely involved. Human rights groups have condemned the practice. Yet it continues.
The man was accused of killing people with charm. The community said he was burying the charm on a member’s farmland. Youths caught him in the act. They took him to the traditional ruler. The ruler condemned the act. He warned residents against actions that threaten peace. After the palace proceedings, the man was banished. He lost his home and his place in the community. His name was not disclosed. The police have not commented. No formal charges were filed. The banishment was immediate and final.
Winners: The community, which asserts traditional authority. The traditional ruler, who reinforces his position. Residents who believe the man was a threat. Losers: The banished man, who loses his home and livelihood. His family, if he has one. The formal justice system, which is bypassed. Human rights advocates, who see this as extrajudicial punishment. The rule of law, which is undermined.
Bottom Line: A man was banished on suspicion of using charms. Traditional justice is swift. It is not fair. The police should investigate. The community should not take the law into its own hands.