In a recent documentary titled “THE HORRORS OF WITCHCRAFT ACCUSATION,” producer Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen sheds light on the illegal activities of soothsayers causing havoc in the northern parts of Ghana.
As part of his investigation, Stephen visited the Yua community in Navrongo Central, Upper East Region, and interviewed a well-known and respected soothsayer named Bagnaba Karinba. The purpose of the visit was to understand the role of soothsayers in witchcraft accusations, which often result in lynching. During the interview, Karinba expressed his deep concern and disappointment about the actions of some of his fellow soothsayers.
Karinba reveals that many soothsayers engage in dishonest practices such as providing incorrect information and blackmailing innocent individuals. These illegal activities often lead to baseless accusations of witchcraft, causing great harm and distress in various communities across the country. The root cause of these accusations is a combination of hardship and the greed for money.
According to Karinba, misunderstandings within families create an opportunity for members to accuse one another of witchcraft. When someone falls ill, they may attribute their misfortune to a specific family member, such as a stepmother, uncle, brother, or sister. Even if the soothsayer does not confirm their suspicions, the accuser will use the perceived validation to intimidate their supposed enemy. This practice often provokes further conflict within the family.
Karinba emphasizes that he cannot simply declare someone a witch without evidence. He questions how anyone can accuse their own mother or sister of such a serious crime if they are innocent. He explains that in society, some people are destined to live long lives, while others have shorter lifespans. Unfortunately, in situations where an elderly person outlives others in their family, they are often labeled as witches. This hasty assumption leads to unnecessary accusations and unrest within families and communities.
The soothsayer offers his advice to the general public, urging everyone to stop these practices and seek peace within their families and communities. He also addresses his fellow soothsayers, calling on them to cease their false prophecies driven by poverty and desperation for money. Karinba emphasizes the importance of honesty and warns that being exposed as a liar could lead to isolation and a loss of respect within the community.
Witchcraft accusations and lynching have become growing concern in Ghana, particularly in the northern part of the country. Immediate action is needed to address this issue and prevent further loss of innocent lives.
The documentary highlighting these issues was generously sponsored by MRG, with additional support from MPEC. It serves as a wake-up call for society to address the illegal activities of soothsayers and the detrimental impact of witchcraft accusations, ultimately striving for peace and harmony.
Source: Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
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