TD 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.
Deborah, who had Down syndrome, was falsely accused of being a witch by her father before he killed her on February 15, 2025.
Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No. 11 delivered the judgment in suit number HC/54C/2025, State v. Ubong Bassey Etim, after finding the defendant guilty of murder.
The court ruled that the prosecution had established the charge beyond reasonable doubt, leading to the conviction and death sentence.
Advocacy Groups React
The case drew widespread attention from child rights and human rights groups, who condemned the killing and called for stronger protection for children living with disabilities.
The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), which supported the prosecution, described the verdict as justice for Deborah.
BRCI noted that the judgment is a significant step in efforts to end witchcraft branding and violence against children.
Principal Counsel and Co‑Founder of BRCI, James Ibor, said the judgment reaffirmed that every child has the right to life, dignity, and protection.
“Today’s judgment sends a strong message that such acts are criminal and that perpetrators will be held fully accountable under the law,” he stated.
Ibor noted that Deborah’s death highlighted the dangers of witchcraft accusations, particularly for children with disabilities.
He stressed that such claims often lead to abuse, abandonment, and even death.
He pledged that BRCI would continue its campaign against witchcraft branding and child abuse across Cross River State.
Commendations for Justice System and Wider Implications
BRCI commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice, and Attorney General Ededem Ani, for their roles in securing the conviction.
It also commended the Director of Public Prosecutions Okoi Ukam, prosecuting counsel, Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom.
The organisation also hailed Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for due diligence during the trial.
It also acknowledged the support of Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, Project Alert, and other partners for assisting Deborah’s mother and siblings during the trial.
The conviction adds to a series of judgments in Cross River State involving violence linked to witchcraft accusations against children.
Advocacy groups continue to call for stronger enforcement of child protection laws and greater public awareness to end the practice.
