Calabar Pastor’s Wife Arrested Over Alleged Abuse of 5-Year-Old Niece
By Ekanem ASUQUO
A pastor’s wife in Calabar, Mrs. Unyime Bassey, has been taken into police custody for allegedly assaulting her five-year-old niece, Edidiong Uwem Aniefiok Ekpene, following a severe beating at her home on Stream Road, Atimbo, Calabar Municipality.
Sources say Edidiong, who acts as a nanny to Mrs. Bassey’s youngest child, Blessing, has repeatedly been subjected to physical abuse over minor issues. The most recent incident reportedly occurred after the girl was accused of taking meat from a pot of soup. Neighbours described this particular beating as mild compared to earlier episodes.
Residents noted that all of Mrs. Bassey’s children attend school, leaving Edidiong at home in her care. The fact that both Mrs. Bassey and her husband are pastors has sparked widespread public outrage.
ASP Sunday Eitokpah, Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Police Command, confirmed that Mrs. Bassey was arrested on 11th March 2026 at about 10:45 am by officers of the A Division, Calabar, after the viral video circulated online.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly assaulted Edidiong with a spatula, causing injuries around the child’s right eye. Further examination revealed bruises on other parts of her body, consistent with repeated abuse.
Police said the investigation is ongoing and assured the public that updates will be provided as the case develops.
The incident has reignited calls for stricter protection of children and accountability for adults entrusted with their care, particularly in homes where minors serve as domestic helpers.
