CALABAR, Nigeria — The Cross River State Police Command has opened an investigation into the death of a 14-year-old girl, Nancy Peter, who allegedly died after being beaten over claims of theft in Wula Community, Boki Local Government Area.
Police said the teenager’s mother, Agnes Peter, 45, and a pastor, Samson Roman Dago, 43, are in custody as detectives examine the circumstances surrounding the girl’s death. The command said preliminary findings showed that Nancy was first allegedly beaten by her mother after being accused of stealing, before she was taken to the pastor, who also allegedly flogged her with a cane.
The police spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident in a statement, saying investigators had begun gathering evidence and would ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted. He said the command was treating the case seriously because it involved the death of a minor following alleged corporal punishment.
The incident has sparked outrage in Cross River, with child-rights advocates condemning the alleged assault as cruel and unacceptable. The Basic Rights Counsel Initiative described the death as heartbreaking and called for justice for the victim.
Local reports said Nancy died after the alleged beating in Eastern Boki. Her body has reportedly been deposited in a mortuary for autopsy as police continue their investigation. Authorities are expected to rely on medical findings to determine the exact cause of death and the degree of responsibility of those involved.
The case has renewed concern over violence against children and the use of harsh physical punishment in homes, schools and religious settings. Rights campaigners say accusations of theft or misconduct should never be handled through abuse, torture or extrajudicial punishment, especially when the person involved is a child.
Police have urged residents to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed. They also warned against mob action or spreading unverified claims that could interfere with the case.
The suspects remain in custody while detectives continue interviews and evidence collection. If the autopsy confirms that the alleged assault caused the girl’s death, the case could lead to serious criminal charges.
For child-protection advocates, Nancy’s death is another painful reminder of the need for stronger enforcement of laws protecting minors from abuse. They say parents, guardians and religious leaders must be held accountable when discipline crosses into violence and results in harm or death.
