"They Told Me Mum Was Behind My Hardships" Lady Allegedly Kills Mother after Visiting Pastors

A woman sitting on her bed looking outside (Photo for illustration). The incident happened in Ondo State, Nigeria. Photo: Mavocado.

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Ondo State, Nigeria– A tragic incident unfolded in Ondo State when a 45-year-old woman allegedly set her elderly mother on fire after being told by pastors that the mother was responsible for her misfortunes.

The suspect, identified as Abiodun, believed that her 86-year-old mother was the cause of her personal problems based on advice from religious figures.

On June 14, Abiodun visited her mother’s home and, after a brief conversation, reportedly doused her with petrol before setting her ablaze. 

The elderly woman suffered severe burns from head to toe and was rushed to the hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries shortly after.

Abiodun claims that she initially did not believe the pastors' claims. She had consulted them for prayers and was told that her mother was behind her ongoing difficulties. 

A separate visit to another spiritual advisor with her mother reportedly reinforced these claims, leaving her convinced that her mother’s death was necessary to lift the supposed curse.

Authorities in Ondo State have detained Abiodun and are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. The State Criminal Investigation Department in Akure confirmed the details and noted the severity of the victim's injuries. 

Police emphasized the dangers of acting on unverified spiritual advice, urging the public to approach such claims with skepticism and seek professional help when facing personal issues.

The case has sparked a debate on the influence of unqualified spiritual advisors and the tragic consequences that can arise from following their guidance without proper verification. 

Such incidents highlight the need for more stringent oversight of religious practices and the spread of superstitious beliefs that can lead to harmful actions.

In a separate, yet related incident, an 83-year-old woman was found dead in her home, allegedly killed by her self-proclaimed born-again daughter. 

Neighbors discovered the body after noticing a foul smell emanating from the house. Police have launched an investigation into this case as well, emphasizing the recurring theme of familial violence linked to misguided religious beliefs.