Calabar Court Sentences Pastor to Death for Killing Teenage Daughter Branded a ‘Witch’

A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced 51-year-old Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, in a judgment that has reignited concerns over the continued persecution of vulnerable children through witchcraft accusations.

Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11 delivered the verdict in Suit No. HC/54C/2025 (State v. Ubong Bassey Etim) after finding the cleric guilty of murdering his daughter on February 15, 2025.

According to reports, Deborah, who lived with Down syndrome, was falsely accused of being a witch before she was killed. Her death sparked widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and organizations campaigning against harmful traditional practices.

Court Sends Strong Message Against Witchcraft Branding

Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), which supported the prosecution, described the conviction as a landmark victory for child protection and justice.

Speaking after the ruling, the organization’s Principal Counsel, James Ibor, said the judgment affirms that every child, regardless of disability or circumstance, has the right to life, dignity, and protection under the law.

“Today’s judgment sends a strong message that such acts are criminal and that perpetrators will be held fully accountable under the law,” Ibor said.

He noted that Deborah’s tragic death highlights the devastating consequences of witchcraft accusations, particularly against children living with disabilities, who are often subjected to rejection, abuse, torture, abandonment, and even death.

Renewed Call to End Child Abuse

The BRCI pledged to intensify its campaign against witchcraft branding and all forms of child abuse across Cross River State, stressing that no child should suffer violence because of harmful cultural or religious beliefs.

The organization also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, led by Attorney General Etubom Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for ensuring justice was served.

Special recognition was given to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr. Okoi Ukam, prosecuting counsel Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom, as well as Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for their contributions to the successful prosecution.

A Landmark Judgment

The conviction adds to a growing number of court decisions in Cross River State aimed at combating violence linked to witchcraft accusations.

Child rights advocates say the ruling reinforces the urgent need for stronger enforcement of child protection laws, increased public awareness, and sustained efforts to end the stigmatization of children, particularly those living with disabilities.

The case serves as a reminder that accusations rooted in superstition can have devastating consequences, and that the law will hold perpetrators accountable for crimes committed under such beliefs.