A 45-year-old pastor, Roman Samson, has been arrested by the Cross River State Police Command over the alleged death of a 13-year-old girl, Nancy Peter, following a severe flogging linked to an allegation of theft.
The incident occurred in Obanleku community, Boki Local Government Area of the state, and has stirred outrage among residents.
According to the girl’s mother, Agnes Peter, she had taken Nancy to the pastor’s residence on June 1 for counselling after discovering that ₦30,000 kept in her home had gone missing.
Agnes said her daughter admitted taking the money and disclosed where it had been concealed. She explained that she left the pastor’s house to verify the claim and eventually recovered the cash from one of the teenager’s trousers.
She, however, said she became alarmed on her way back when she saw the pastor rushing Nancy to a hospital.
“I met them on the road. I didn’t know he had beaten her,” the grieving mother said.
The teenager was later confirmed dead at the medical facility.
The suspect reportedly admitted disciplining the girl with a horsewhip but denied intending to kill her.
According to him, he gave the teenager between 13 and 15 strokes after her mother complained that she had repeatedly stolen money.
He maintained that he immediately sought medical attention after noticing that the girl had become weak during the punishment, but doctors later pronounced her dead.
The Cross River State Police Command confirmed the pastor’s arrest, stating that detectives had commenced an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The case has reignited concerns over the use of corporal punishment, particularly against children, with many residents condemning the alleged excessive use of force.
Community members described Nancy as a cheerful and energetic teenager whose sudden death has thrown the community into mourning.
Police said the suspect remains in custody while investigations continue, after which he is expected to face prosecution if found culpable.
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