For years, Deborah’s family lived with a pain no court judgment could erase.
A child whose life was cut short after being falsely branded a witch, Deborah became one of many innocent victims of a dangerous belief that continues to destroy families across parts of Nigeria. But on Tuesday, that painful chapter took a significant turn when a court found the man responsible for her murder guilty and sentenced him to death by hanging.
For Deborah’s grieving mother and siblings, the verdict represents more than punishment for the killer—it is a long-awaited acknowledgment that Deborah’s life mattered.
Her tragic death shocked many and drew the attention of child rights advocates, who say the case reflects the deadly consequences of witchcraft accusations against children, especially those living with disabilities or health conditions that are often misunderstood.
Across several communities, children accused of witchcraft have suffered rejection, torture, abandonment and, in some cases, death. Human rights groups say many of these children are targeted because of poverty, disability, illness or family crises, with superstition making them easy victims.
Reacting to the judgment, the Basic Rights Counsel Initiative (BRCI) described the verdict as a major victory for child protection and the fight against witchcraft branding.
According to the organisation’s Principal Counsel and Co-Founder, James Ibor, the judgment sends a clear message that anyone who harms a child under the guise of witchcraft accusations will face the full weight of the law.
“This judgment is not only justice for Deborah; it is also a significant milestone in the ongoing fight to end witchcraft branding and other harmful practices against children,” he said.
He stressed that every child has the right to life, dignity and protection, regardless of disability or background.
BRCI also commended the Nigeria Police Force, the Cross River State Ministry of Justice under Attorney General Etubom Ededem Ani, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, the Judiciary, medical experts and partner organisations for ensuring that justice was achieved.
Beyond the courtroom, the organisation acknowledged the emotional and financial support provided to Deborah’s mother and siblings by partner organisations, including Women Arise, Safe Child Africa and Project Alert, helping the family cope with the devastating loss.
While Deborah cannot be brought back, child rights advocates hope her case will become a turning point in ending the culture of witchcraft branding that continues to threaten vulnerable children.
For Deborah’s family, the verdict may not erase years of grief, but it offers something they have waited for—a measure of justice, and the hope that no other child will suffer the same fate.
