A High Court in Cross River State has sentenced a 51-year-old pastor, Ubong Bassey Etim, to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, after falsely accusing her of being a witch.
Justice Blessing Egwu delivered the judgment in Calabar on Tuesday, ruling that the prosecution had proved the charge of murder beyond reasonable doubt. The court found Etim guilty and ordered that he be executed by hanging in accordance with the law.
Evidence presented during the trial showed that Deborah, who had Down Syndrome, was killed on February 15, 2025, after her father allegedly labelled her a witch. The shocking incident drew nationwide outrage and renewed calls for stronger protection of children living with disabilities and those targeted by harmful cultural beliefs.
The judgment has been welcomed by child rights advocates and organisations campaigning against witchcraft branding, describing it as a significant step in the fight against violence towards vulnerable children.
Reacting to the verdict, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) said the conviction represents justice for Deborah and sends a clear warning that those responsible for child abuse and harmful traditional practices will face the full weight of the law.
The organisation commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice under the leadership of Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for ensuring a thorough investigation, diligent prosecution and a fair trial.
BRCI also praised the Director of Public Prosecutions, Okoi Ukam, prosecutors Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom, as well as Dr David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, for their contributions to securing the conviction. It further acknowledged the support of Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, Project Alert and other partners for providing financial assistance and psychosocial care to Deborah’s mother and siblings throughout the legal process.
Reaffirming its commitment to ending witchcraft accusations against children, BRCI stressed that every child, regardless of disability or personal circumstances, deserves the right to life, dignity and protection from violence. The organisation urged continued efforts to eliminate harmful practices that put vulnerable children at risk.
