Faith Over Fear: Ending Witch Hunts in Bauchi

October 17, 2025 OLAOLUWA AYOMIDE

Rallying Against Witch Hunts in Bauchi State, Nigeria

In parts of northern Nigeria, fear still wears a familiar face, the accusation of witchcraft. In Bauchi State, reports of witch hunts, public humiliation, and even violence against supposed “witches” continue to emerge. Many of the accused are women, children, or the elderly, victims not of dark powers, but of superstition, ignorance, and fear.

Yet amid the fear, the Church has a divine calling: to bring truth, compassion, and freedom through the gospel of Christ.

The Deep Roots of Fear

Witchcraft accusations in Bauchi, like in many parts of Nigeria, often arise from misfortune, a sudden illness, a failed harvest, a mysterious death. When explanations are scarce, people look for someone to blame. Tragically, these accusations tear communities apart and lead to immense suffering.

In many rural areas, traditional beliefs blend with distorted spiritual ideas. Some self-proclaimed prophets or traditional healers exploit fear for profit, promising to “cleanse” or “deliver” families from witchcraft, often through cruel or violent means.

But Scripture reminds us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). Fear-driven faith is not true faith; it is a weapon of the enemy that blinds hearts from God’s truth.

The Church’s Role: Light in the Darkness

Christianity must rise as a voice of truth in Bauchi and beyond. The gospel reveals that Jesus has already conquered all principalities and powers (Colossians 2:15). Witchcraft, demons, and darkness are not greater than the light of Christ. When believers understand this truth, fear loses its grip.

Church leaders in Bauchi and across Nigeria have a sacred duty to teach sound doctrine, not superstition disguised as spirituality. The pulpit must become a place of liberation, not accusation. Jesus never hunted witches; He healed the sick, forgave sinners, and delivered the oppressed through love, not violence.

Every Christian gathering, from Sunday schools to prayer meetings, should emphasize that Christ’s power redeems, not condemns. Instead of labeling people as witches, the Church must extend grace, counseling, and prayer.

Education: The Path Toward Freedom

One of the strongest weapons against witch hunts is education, both spiritual and social. Many witchcraft accusations thrive where ignorance and poverty prevail. Christian organizations, churches, and schools can help by providing biblical literacy, critical thinking skills, and basic education that empower communities to see beyond fear.

Read Also: From Tragedy to Testimony: The Story of Baby Ruth

Teaching children about God’s character, that He is loving, just, and all-powerful, helps them reject lies about witchcraft. When people know that sickness, accidents, or death can have natural causes, they no longer need to blame their neighbors.

As Hosea 4:6 warns, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” The Church must therefore become a center of truth that sets minds free.

Healing a Wounded Land

Eradicating witch hunts in Bauchi requires both prayer and action. Government authorities, traditional leaders, and Christian communities must work together to pass and enforce laws that protect victims of witchcraft accusations. Pastors and imams should use their platforms to preach unity, peace, and forgiveness.

Above all, intercessors must pray for revival, a move of the Holy Spirit that transforms hearts and renews minds. The same Jesus who broke the power of death can break the chains of superstition.

A Call to Faith, Not Fear

Bauchi State doesn’t need more witch hunters, it needs more truth-tellers, peacemakers, and spirit-filled believers. The gospel calls us not to condemn the accused, but to show them Christ’s love.

When the Church stands firm in faith, teaches truth, and lives out compassion, the stronghold of witchcraft will crumble, not through violence, but through victory in Jesus’ name.

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

And when truth reigns, no witch hunt can survive.