Mother detained for throwing disabled five-year-old child into river in Edo

A woman has been taken into custody by residents of Ovia North-East Local Government Area in Edo State after she allegedly threw her five-year-old child into a river, acting on the instructions of a self-proclaimed seer in Benin City.

The incident came to light following the circulation of videos on social media, sparking widespread outrage and debate across the country.

According to accounts from the scene, the woman said she had been unable to conceive another child since giving birth to the five-year-old, who has also been unable to walk from birth. Seeking spiritual intervention, she reportedly visited a seer in Benin City who told her that the child was a python in human form and was responsible for her inability to have more children.

The seer allegedly advised her that unless she got rid of the child, she would either continue giving birth to children with similar disabilities or never conceive again. Acting on that advice, she threw the child into a river.

Members of the community apprehended the woman after the act. Public reactions have been sharply divided, with many condemning the mother while others directed their anger at the seer for what they described as a deceptive and dangerous prophecy.

When contacted, the Edo State Police Command said it was not aware of the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer stated that she had no information on the matter and did not provide further comment.

Authorities have yet to independently verify the full circumstances surrounding the case, including the current condition and whereabouts of the child.