Tragedy as pastor kills own 16-year-old daughter after accusing her of being a witch who changes into snake

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A saddening incident has hit Calabar, the capital city of Cross River as a reverend pastor, identified as Apostle Ubong Bassey, murdered his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah, a Down Syndrome patient over alleged witchcraft.

This shocking incident was brought to light in a viral post circulating on the popular social media platform, X, formerly known as Twitter. It was reported that occurrence took place on at No. 7 Jacob Street, off Eyo Edem, in the Calabar South Local Government Area.

Deborah’s younger brother, Bassey, said their father gathered the family and announced her death after the incident.

Bassey recalled opening the door to help Deborah dispose of her feces when their father intervened, insisting she handle it herself. She complied but fell while returning to her room.

Bassey said he alerted their father, who then entered the room and told the others to leave while he attended to Deborah. After a long time, Apostle Ubong called his children in and announced Deborah’s passing.

The individual who shared the post, identified as @EduEle5, via the X page, revealed that the police have been notified and the pastor is currently on the run

Authorities have launched a manhunt and are also appealing to the public for assistance in locating and apprehending him.

The post read, “Apostle Ubong Bassey Etim murdered his 16-year-old daughter in Calabar after accusing her of being a witch who could transform into a snake. The young girl, who had Down syndrome, was brutally killed on February 15, 2025, in Calabar, Cross River State.”

“The suspect’s estranged wife disclosed that the pastor had a history of domestic violence, which forced her to flee their home. Despite this, she continued fighting for her children’s safety. She is now calling on Nigerians to help ensure her daughter gets justice.”

See the post below: