Pastor Sentenced to 49 Years for Incestuous Child Sexual Abuse in Akwa Ibom
An Akwa Ibom State High Court in Uyo has sentenced Apostle Williams Okon Bassey to 49 years in prison after convicting him of incestuous child sexual abuse involving his daughter.
Justice Bassey Nkanang delivered the judgment and held that the prosecution proved the charges beyond reasonable doubt under the Criminal Code of Akwa Ibom State.
The court found that the abuse occurred repeatedly while the child lived with her father in Ikono Local Government Area. Proceedings revealed that she was moved between parents during periods linked to pregnancies, a situation that failed to prevent continued harm.
The case only came to light after the child disclosed the abuse during a family confrontation. That disclosure triggered an investigation that led to arrest and prosecution.
During the trial, the defendant admitted to the conduct and described how the abuse occurred over time. The court relied on his testimony and other evidence in reaching its decision.
Justice Nkanang stressed the seriousness of violating a child’s safety and trust within a family environment. He noted that such offences demand strict legal consequences.
Child protection observers say the case highlights gaps in safeguarding systems and early detection mechanisms. They warn that children can remain at risk when warning signs are not acted upon quickly.
The court ultimately imposed a 49-year custodial sentence, reinforcing accountability for child sexual abuse and incest offences.
