Nigerians are once again calling for justice for 13-year-old Ochanya Ogbanje, whose story stunned the country, seven years after her tragic death. Many people feel that those who caused her pain and death have not been adequately punished, which has led to a renewed outcry.
After years of alleged sexual abuse by her uncle, Andrew Ogbuja, a lecturer at Benue State Polytechnic, and his son, Victor Ogbuja, Ochanya, a student at the Federal Government Girls College in Gboko, Benue State, passed away in 2018. According to reports, the abuse resulted in vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF), a serious medical condition that ultimately led to her death.
Despite the widespread sympathy for the case and the #JusticeForOchanya movement, the court’s progress has been sluggish and disappointing. A Benue State High Court cleared Andrew Ogbuja in 2022 due to a lack of proof. Victor, his son, has been at large since 2018. Victor was also charged with raping Ochanya.
Felicia Ogbuja, Andrew’s wife and Ochanya’s guardian, was found negligent for neglecting to keep the adolescent safe even though she was allegedly aware of the abuse. Many Nigerians believe her five-month prison sentence is too light for the crime she committed.
Nationwide fury has been rekindled by the #JusticeForOchanya campaign’s recent social media comeback. Nigerians are calling for Victor to be arrested again and for the case to be thoroughly investigated. Ochanya’s death, according to child rights organizations, highlights Nigeria’s inadequate system for safeguarding children and prosecuting abusers.
Many now view her story as a representation of the innumerable abuse victims who have been silenced. Justice denied is justice postponed, as her passing serves as a reminder. Nigerians are demanding genuine accountability as the hashtag gains popularity once more, not only for Ochanya but for all children who are entitled to safety and justice.
