A High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, has sentenced a man, Ubong Badsey Etim, to death by hanging for the murder of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Etim, who had Down syndrome.
Gatekeepers News reports that delivering judgment, Justice Blessing Egwu found Etim guilty of murder after the court heard that he falsely accused his daughter of witchcraft because of her condition before killing her.
Down syndrome is a lifelong genetic condition that affects physical and cognitive development. While it can cause learning difficulties and developmental delays, many people with Down syndrome lead active and fulfilling lives.
Reacting to the judgment, counsel and co-founder of the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, Barrister James Ibor, described Deborah’s death as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by witchcraft accusations, particularly against children living with disabilities.
“Deborah’s tragic death has exposed the devastating consequences of witchcraft branding, a harmful practice that continues to endanger the lives of children, particularly those living with disabilities,” he said.
According to Ibor, false accusations of witchcraft have continued to fuel abuse and violence against vulnerable children in many communities.
“Across many communities, false accusations of witchcraft have resulted in rejection, torture, abandonment and even the killing of innocent children. Today’s judgment sends a strong message that such acts are criminal and that perpetrators will be held accountable under the law,” he added.
He described the verdict as a significant step in protecting children’s rights and tackling harmful traditional practices.
“This judgment is not only justice for Deborah, it is also a significant milestone for the ongoing fight to end witchcraft branding and other harmful practices against children. It enforces the fundamental principle that every child has a right to life, dignity and protection.”
