Pastor sentenced to death for killing daughter
Analysis based on 14 articles · First reported Jul 20, 2026 · Last updated Jul 22, 2026
This event has minimal direct market impact, as it involves a local criminal case. However, it may influence public sentiment and policy discussions around child protection laws in Nigeria, potentially affecting non-profit organizations and legal sectors.
On July 20, 2026, Justice Blessing Egwu of the Nigeria — Cross River State High Court in Calabar sentenced Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, who had Down syndrome and was falsely accused of witchcraft. The murder occurred on February 15, 2025. The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI), which supported the prosecution, hailed the verdict as a landmark victory against witchcraft branding and child abuse. The Nigeria — Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria — Cross River State Ministry of Justice, Director of Public Prosecutions Okoi Ukam, prosecutors Patrick Usang and Deborah Tom, and Dr. David Ushie of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital contributed to the conviction. Women Arise, Safe Child Africa, and Project Alert provided support to the victim's family. BRCI Principal Counsel James Ibori commended the judgment, reaffirming the right to life and dignity for all children.
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