Nigerian Man Survives Witchcraft Accusation and Brutal Attack to Graduate University

Thirteen years after enduring a horrific ordeal of being accused of witchcraft, brutally attacked, and abandoned for dead, a young Nigerian man named Asuquo Edet has successfully graduated from Akwa Ibom State University. His journey from the brink of death to academic achievement was aided by Danish aid worker Anja Ringgren Love and her husband, who rescued him following the 2014 incident in Ikon-Edikor, Udung Uko Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

Asuquo's father, who had been ill for some time, passed away a few days after Asuquo was released to him. Previously, Asuquo had been estranged from his father for over three years, having been cast out onto the streets. This abandonment stemmed from a diagnosis by a soothsayer, brought in by his stepmother, who alleged that Asuquo was a wizard responsible for the family's misfortunes and his father's illness.

The situation escalated dramatically when Asuquo, mourning his father's death, was stormed by a mob. Led by his stepbrothers, the group attacked him with machetes, wires, whips, and sticks, demanding to know why he had supposedly caused his father's demise. They then proceeded to inflict severe injuries, including a machete blow to his head, before discarding his seemingly lifeless body in the bush.

Against all odds, Asuquo survived the attack. David and Anja Ringgren Love discovered him, initiated his rescue, reported the crime to the police, and ensured he received urgent medical attention. Ms. Love recounted on Facebook on Sunday, April 11, 2026, that even in his critical state, Asuquo’s primary concern was for her well-being, asking if she had sufficient water.

Her post highlighted Asuquo's consistent academic excellence. "Year after year, Asuquo has taken first place in his class throughout secondary school and high school," she noted. He graduated with exceptional scores, earning praise even from his principal. His journey, marked by an unwavering spirit, has seen him earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Genetics & Biotechnology.

Ms. Love used the occasion to strongly condemn the practice of accusing children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities or mental health challenges of witchcraft. She expressed immense pride in Asuquo's accomplishment, calling him an inspiration who has transitioned from being left for dead to becoming a university graduate. She extended gratitude to the supporters of 'Land of Hope,' acknowledging their role in the achievements of the children under their care, and affirmed her deep paternal connection to Asuquo.