Justice Blessing Egwu of High Court No.11, Calabar, Cross River State on Monday, sentenced Apostle Ubong Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter suffering from down syndrome, Deborah Bassey.
Etim’s daughter was falsely accused of being a witch and Justice Egwu found the defendant guilty of murder after the conclusion of the trial.
Meanwhile, Deborah’s killing, has drawn widespread condemnation from child rights advocates and human rights organizations.
They have described the case as a stark reminder of the dangers of accusations of witchcraft against children, particularly those living with disabilities.
Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), described the conviction as a landmark victory for child protection and the fight against witchcraft branding.
In a statement signed by its Principal Counsel and Co-Founder, James Ibor, the organization said the ruling sends a strong message that perpetrators of violence arising from false witchcraft accusations will be held accountable under the law.
According to the organization, the judgment represents not only justice for Deborah but also a significant step in efforts to eradicate harmful traditional practices that expose children to abuse, torture, abandonment and death.
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“The judgment reinforces the fundamental principle that every child has the right to life, dignity and protection,” the statement said.
The BRCI commended the police, the state Ministry of Justice, and the judiciary for their commitment to ensuring justice in the case.
It further expressed appreciation to its partners, including Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, Project Alert, Etinosa Yvonne, and members of the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, for providing financial and psychosocial support to Deborah’s mother and siblings throughout the trial.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting vulnerable children, the BRCI pledged to continue advocating against witchcraft branding and other forms of violence against children while working to ensure that offenders are brought to justice.
The organization noted that the campaign against witchcraft branding is gathering momentum and vowed to sustain efforts until every child is free from harmful accusations, abuse and violence.
