Pastor’s wife in police net for assaulting 5-year-old niece in Calabar

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By Ike Uchechukwu, CALABAR

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A pastor’s wife, Mrs. Unyime Bassey, has been arrested by the Cross River State Police Command for allegedly assaulting her five-year-old niece, Edidiong (name withheld), at her residence on Stream Road, Atimbo, Calabar Municipality.

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Vanguard gathered that Edidiong, who acts as a nanny to Mrs. Bassey’s youngest child, Blessing, has been subjected to repeated physical abuse over minor issues.

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The latest incident occurred after the minor was accused of stealing meat from a pot of soup. Neighbours described the episode as relatively mild compared to previous cases of abuse.

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Residents noted that while all of Mrs. Bassey’s biological children attend school, Edidiong is left at home under her aunt’s care.

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The involvement of both Mrs. Bassey and her husband, who are pastors, has sparked widespread public outrage in the community.

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The Public Relations Officer of the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed that she was arrested on March 11, 2026, at about 10:45 am by officers of A Division, Calabar.

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He said the arrest followed the circulation of a viral video depicting the alleged abuse.

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According to him, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect struck Edidiong with a spatula, inflicting injuries around her right eye.

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Medical examination also showed bruises on other parts of her body, consistent with repeated physical abuse.

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The police assured that investigations are ongoing, with further updates to be provided as the case progresses.

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The incident has renewed calls for stronger child protection measures and accountability, especially for minors serving as domestic helpers in private households.

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