Authorities in Cross River State have taken into custody Ibiong Bassey after a disturbing video surfaced online, depicting the alleged abuse of her five- year-old niece.
Due to the victim’s minor status, PREMIUM TIMES has opted to keep her identity confidential.
Police spokesperson Eitokpah Sunday announced the arrest took place on March 11 at around 10:45 a.m., following the video's release.
In a statement, Mr. Sunday detailed that preliminary investigations indicate the minor was struck with a spatula, resulting in injuries near her right eye.
He noted that further assessments revealed additional bruises on the child's body, signifying ongoing mistreatment.
The video circulated widely on various social media platforms, inciting public outrage as it depicted the young girl, who was reportedly serving as her aunt's domestic helper, being beaten repeatedly over allegations of pilfering meat from a soup pot.
Reports associated with the video allege that Ms. Bassey, a mother of four, had compelled the girl—her late sister's child—to act as a caregiver for her youngest child while depriving her of access to education. Neighbor testimonies included in the video suggested the child had previously endured severe beatings from Bassey.
The suspect and her husband are described as pastors.
In response to the incident, the Uyo Iban Amplifier Initiative, a civil society organization advocating for women and children's rights in Cross River, has called on law enforcement and government officials to pursue justice for the affected child.
The group's coordinator, Okoho Ene, emphasized the necessity for stringent enforcement of the state’s Child Rights Law.
"Many other children suffer similar abuses without receiving any attention," Ms. Ene stated. "The government must act swiftly to raise awareness regarding the Child Rights Law, enhance community vigilance, and ensure that offenders are held accountable."
The ongoing investigation is expected to yield further updates from the authorities.
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