Pastor sentenced to death for killing daughter over witchcraft claim

A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced a 51-year-old pastor, Ubong Bassey Etim, to death by hanging for murdering his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, after falsely accusing her of being a witch.

Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11 delivered the judgment on Monday, finding Etim guilty of murder.

The court held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and ordered that the convict be executed by hanging.

The tragic incident occurred on February 15, 2025, when Deborah, who had Down syndrome, was killed after being branded a witch by her father.

The case drew widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and organisations campaigning against witchcraft accusations and violence against children.

Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) described the verdict as a landmark victory in the fight against witchcraft branding and abuse of vulnerable children.

The organisation said the judgment not only delivered justice for Deborah but also sent a clear message that those who subject children to violence under the guise of witchcraft beliefs will face the full weight of the law.

BRCI commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, led by Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice Ededem Ani, and the judiciary for ensuring a diligent investigation, fair trial and successful prosecution of the case.

It 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 roles in securing the conviction.

The organisation further acknowledged the support provided by Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, Project Alert and other partners, who offered financial and psychosocial assistance to Deborah’s mother and siblings throughout the trial.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting children, BRCI said it would continue to campaign against witchcraft branding and other harmful practices, stressing that every child, regardless of disability or circumstance, deserves the right to life, dignity and protection under the law.