In a landmark judgment, a Cross River State High Court in Calabar has sentenced 51-year-old Pastor Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey. The court found him guilty of killing Deborah on February 15, 2025, after accusing her of witchcraft. Deborah, who had Down Syndrome, was brutally killed by her own father, sparking nationwide outrage.
Court Ruling and Reaction
Justice Blessing Egwu delivered the verdict, ruling that the prosecution had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) described the conviction as "a landmark victory in the fight against witchcraft accusations and abuse of vulnerable children." The organization emphasized that the judgment sends a strong message that child abuse and witchcraft branding will not go unpunished in Nigeria.
Investigation and Prosecution
BRCI praised the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice led by Attorney-General Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for ensuring a thorough investigation and prosecution. The group also commended Director of Public Prosecutions Okoi Ukam, prosecutors Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom, and Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for their roles in securing the conviction.
Support for the Family
BRCI acknowledged the support from Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, Project Alert, and other partners who provided financial and psychosocial assistance to Deborah's mother and siblings throughout the trial. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to ending witchcraft branding, stating that every child, regardless of disability, has the right to life, dignity, and protection from violence.
Wider Context
Accusations of witchcraft against children remain a problem in parts of Nigeria despite existing laws against child abuse. Children with disabilities or medical conditions are often targeted due to harmful beliefs and misinformation. Rights groups continue to campaign against this practice, and the verdict in Deborah's case is seen as a significant step forward.
