Court Delivers Justice As Child Abuse Case Sparks Fresh Outrage
A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging after finding him guilty of murdering his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, who was living with Down syndrome.
The judgment was delivered on Monday by Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11, bringing to an end a case that has drawn widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and members of the public.
According to court findings, the incident happened on February 15, 2025, at the family’s residence on Jacob Street in Calabar South Local Government Area. Deborah had gone outside to dispose of her faeces when she reportedly slipped and fell while returning to the house.
Evidence presented before the court showed that her younger brother wanted to assist her, but their father insisted she should handle it herself. Moments later, the pastor asked the children to leave the room before later calling them back to announce that Deborah had died.
During the trial, prosecutors told the court that the pastor had repeatedly accused his daughter of being a witch and even claimed she was a snake. The allegations formed part of the evidence that led to his conviction.
The prosecution was supported by the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), a non-governmental organisation that advocates for the rights of women and children. The organisation described the judgment as a major victory in the fight against violence linked to witchcraft accusations.
Principal Counsel of BRCI, James Ibor, said the case exposed the dangers of branding children as witches, especially children living with disabilities. He said the judgment sends a strong message that anyone who abuses or kills a child under the guise of witchcraft beliefs will face the full weight of the law.
The organisation also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, medical experts and partner organisations for their roles in securing justice for the late Deborah.
Deborah’s estranged mother also told investigators that the incident was not the first case of violence in the family, alleging that she and her children had suffered repeated physical abuse before she eventually left the marriage.
The judgment has been welcomed by child rights campaigners, who say it reinforces every child’s right to life, dignity and protection, regardless of disability or harmful cultural beliefs.
IBN News reports that the case has renewed calls for stronger action against child abuse and the continued practice of accusing children of witchcraft in parts of Nigeria.
