The Cross River State Police Command has reportedly launched a manhunt for a pastor, Apostle Ubong Bassey, following the death of his 16-year-old daughter, Deborah Bassey, whom he allegedly accused of witchcraft.

Investigative journalist Agba Jalingo confirmed the incident on Thursday, February 20, stating that Deborah, who had Down Syndrome, was allegedly labeled a “witch” and a “snake” by her father before her tragic death.

The incident occurred on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at around 4 p.m. at No. 7 Jacob Street, off Eyo Edem, in Calabar South Local Government Area. Neighbors were left in shock as the details emerged.

According to her brother, Bassey, he had gone to assist Deborah in disposing of her waste, but their father insisted she do it herself. On her way back to her room, she reportedly slipped and fell. When Bassey alerted their father, Apostle Ubong, he instructed him to leave while he attended to her.

After a prolonged period, the pastor summoned his children and informed them that their elder sister had passed away.

The suspect’s estranged wife, who has allegedly suffered years of domestic violence, revealed that this was not the first act of abuse in the household.

“We have endured severe physical abuse, which eventually forced me to flee. But I never stopped fighting for my children’s safety,” she said.

She is now calling on authorities and the public to ensure justice for her late daughter.

“We are grateful to Women Arise, UNICAL, Project Alert, Etinosa Yvonne, Gary Foxcroft, Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, Safe Child Africa, and James Ibor for their support in keeping our family safe while the police continue their investigations,” she added.

The police have yet to release an official statement, but investigations are ongoing.