The police command in Ebonyi has arrested a self-acclaimed prophet, Nwankpu James, over the alleged abuse and humiliation of a child accused of witchcraft.

The police commissioner, Hope Okafor disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday. She said the incident occurred in Isohumini Agbaja community, Izzi LGA.

Ms Okafor said the arrest followed the prophet’s actions in a viral video, where the child was being maltreated in an abusive and inhuman manner.

“The operatives of the Command were immediately directed to ensure the arrest of the suspect and the rescue of the child.

“Acting on the directive, operatives traced the suspect and the child’s parents to Isohumini Agbaja community in Izzi local government area, where the suspect was arrested and the child successfully rescued. The suspect is currently in our custody as investigations into the incident continue,” stated the police chief.

Meanwhile, the rescued child had been admitted to the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki for immediate medical attention, she added.

Ms Okafor reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens, particularly children, and strongly warned against all forms of child abuse and inhumane acts.

A resident, Mather Nwachukwu, alleged that the child was suffering from frequent illness, prompting her parents to seek spiritual intervention from the prophet.

The prophet was, however, alleged to have accused the child of witchcraft and subjected her to humiliating practices in the guise of deliverance.

(NAN)