Pastor's Wife in Calabar Accused of Brutalizing Her Brother's Minor Daughter
A pastor's wife identified as Mrs. Unyime Bassey has been accused of brutally assaulting her brother's young daughter in Calabar, Cross River State. The incident, which has sparked outrage on social media, involves the child named Edidiong, who is reportedly under seven years old.
Details of the Alleged Abuse
According to a Facebook post by user Ukoeebi Esien on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the abuse occurred in the Atimbo area of Calabar. Edidiong is said to run errands and care for Mrs. Bassey's youngest child, Blessing, as part of her daily responsibilities. Neighbors have allegedly described the girl as frequently subjected to severe punishment and beatings for minor mistakes, with this recent incident being labeled as "mild" compared to previous episodes of violence.
Trigger for the Latest Incident
The latest beating reportedly stemmed from Edidiong allegedly taking meat from the family pot of soup. This act, considered a trivial offense, led to what witnesses claim was a brutal assault by Mrs. Bassey. The allegations suggest a pattern of harsh discipline that has raised concerns among local residents about the child's welfare.
Police Involvement and Community Response
The matter has been formally reported to the Nigeria Police Force, specifically the Airport Division in Calabar. Authorities are now investigating the claims to determine the extent of the abuse and ensure appropriate legal action is taken. The case highlights ongoing issues of child protection and domestic violence in the region, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of laws safeguarding minors.
Community members have expressed shock and dismay over the allegations, emphasizing the need for vigilance in reporting such incidents to prevent further harm. As the investigation proceeds, advocates are urging for support systems to be strengthened to protect vulnerable children from similar abuses in the future.
