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Gambaga Witches Camp Serves As A Refuge For Alleged Witches- Northern Regional Minister Designate
Tia Ibrahim, the Minister-Designate for the Northeast Region, has shared a detailed account of the origins and purpose of the Gambaga Witches Camp, a controversial settlement for individuals accused of witchcraft.
During his vetting before the Appointments Committee on Monday, January 27, Ibrahim recounted the historical context that led to the establishment of the camp.
He explained that the camp was initially created as a refuge for accused individuals to escape violence and lynching within their communities.
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“In the past, people accused of witchcraft were often killed,” he said. “The Imam at the time condemned these killings and proposed that such individuals be sent to a traditional priest, who had the spiritual powers to neutralise the alleged witchcraft. That intervention marked the beginning of the Gambaga Witches Camp as a safe haven for the accused.”
According to Ibrahim, the camp operates under the guidance of traditional spiritual leaders who evaluate accusations of witchcraft.
“When someone is accused, they are taken to the camp. If it is determined that they are not a witch, they are allowed to return home. But if it is proven otherwise, they remain at the camp, where the spiritual leader works to neutralise the supposed witchcraft,” he explained.
The Gambaga Witches Camp, located in the Northeast Region, remains a subject of intense debate. While some view it as a necessary refuge for vulnerable individuals, others criticise it as perpetuating stigmas and human rights violations.
Ibrahim acknowledged the challenges associated with the camp but emphasised its historical importance in preventing the violent deaths of accused individuals.
As Minister-Designate, Ibrahim’s comments suggest that his leadership could involve exploring ways to address the underlying issues of stigma, social exclusion, and protection for vulnerable groups in the region.
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