Seven years after the heartbreaking death of 13-year-old Elizabeth Ochanya Ogbanje, Nigerians have revived the #JusticeForOchanya movement.
They are demanding accountability and justice for the young girl who allegedly suffered years of rape and abuse.
Ochanya left her village in Benue State in 2013 to pursue education,
She was reportedly subjected to repeated s3xual assault by a lecturer at Benue State Polytechnic and his son over a period of five years.
The abuse resulted in severe medical complications, including Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF), leading to recurring hospitalisations.
She died on 18 October 2018 at General Hospital Otukpo, with an autopsy confirming serial abuse
This prompted nationwide protests and the first wave of the #JusticeForOchanya campaign.
Despite initial legal action, Dr Andrew Ogbuja was acquitted in 2021 on grounds of insufficient evidence, while his wife Felicia received a brief five-month sentence for negligence.
Victor Ogbuja, also accused, has never been tried and is reportedly pursuing a music career in Lagos.
The renewed agitation began last week after activists spotlighted the stalled justice.
Human rights advocate Betty Abah raised questions about the release of Dr Ogbuja without due communication,
She urges state authorities to intervene.
Social media has since erupted, with over 10,000 posts in 48 hours, blending outrage, survivor testimonies, and calls for Victor’s arrest.
Many are pressing the Benue State Government, police, and judiciary for urgent action.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has publicly taken up the cause, urging Ochanya’s family to submit a formal petition so she can pursue justice through the National Assembly.
“For our children, I stand for justice for Ochanya,” she stated.
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The revived campaign has been linked to broader advocacy against gender-based violence and child marriage.
