Pastor Sentenced To Death For Killing Teenage Daughter Accused Of Witchcraft

A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced a 51-year-old cleric, Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim, to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey.

Justice Blessing Egwu delivered the verdict after finding Etim guilty of killing Deborah, who had Down syndrome, on February 15, 2025, following false accusations that she was a witch.

The judgment has been hailed as a major victory in the fight against child abuse and violence linked to witchcraft allegations.

The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), which supported the prosecution, described the ruling as a landmark step for justice and child protection.

Reacting to the verdict, BRCI’s Principal Counsel, James Ibor, said the judgment sends a strong message that perpetrators of witchcraft-related violence against children will be held accountable under the law.

He noted that Deborah’s tragic death underscores the dangers faced by vulnerable children, particularly those living with disabilities, who are often subjected to abuse, neglect, torture and even death due to harmful superstitious beliefs.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to combating child abuse, ending harmful traditional practices and advocating stronger legal protections for vulnerable children.

BRCI also praised the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, the Director of Public Prosecutions, prosecuting counsel and the judiciary for their efforts in securing the conviction.

The ruling is one of several recent judgments in Cross River State aimed at curbing child abuse and prosecuting crimes arising from witchcraft accusations.