The founder of the Nigeria-based Non-Government Organization Land of Hope, Anja Ringgren Lovén, took to the official social media account of Land of hope to share the story of Mary. The organization has been working for over a decade to save children whom their families or communities accused of being witches. She used the story of the unfortunate girl to shed light on the superstition prevalent in Nigeria.
Anja shared that It has been nine years since the NGO rescued Mary. The members of the Non-Government Organization found her half naked, living in the bushes. Elaborating on her situation, Anja shared that Mary had cuts and bruises from an iron all over her body. She was tortured and abused. If you think of an inhuman situation, this is one of the worst! One you can never forget.
The Facebook post elaborated that Mary was accused of being a witch. DESPITE Nigeria’s criminal code that FORBIDS accusing or even threatening to accuse someone of being a witch, thousands of innocent children are branded witches EVERY DAY! The government of Nigeria has not yet implemented the law. The Nigerian government has FAILED to bring those responsible for the horrific crimes against children accused of being witches to justice!
Adding to this, Anja noted that Pastors and religious leaders in Nigeria are richer than ever with private jets and houses made of gold because accusing children of being witches is a very profitable business !! Anja shared that Mary survived; today she is the most caring and hardworking student with a bright future. She is brilliant, smart and she loves to play football and sing. Her voice is so magical.
Accordingly the founder of land of hope, Anja Ringgren Lovén observed that every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, struggle, and the passionate concern of dedicated individuals.
