Nigerians revive ‘Justice For Ochanya’ seven years after teen’s death.

Seven years after the tragic death of 13-year-old Elizabeth Ochanya Ogbanje, Nigerians have revived the #JusticeForOchanya campaign, demanding accountability and renewed prosecution of those accused in her case.

Ochanya, a student from Benue State, died in October 2018 after suffering severe health complications linked to years of alleged sexual abuse. Her story, which once sparked nationwide outrage, has resurfaced on social media, reigniting conversations about justice, child protection, and gender-based violence.

The young girl had moved from her hometown to Makurdi in 2013 to live with her aunt and pursue her education, with dreams of becoming a doctor. However, reports revealed that she was repeatedly assaulted over a five-year period by a lecturer at Benue State Polytechnic and his son.

The prolonged abuse resulted in Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF), a severe medical condition that led to multiple hospitalisations. Ochanya eventually died on October 18, 2018, at the General Hospital in Otukpo.

Following her death, widespread protests erupted across the country, with civil society groups and child rights advocates calling for justice. An autopsy confirmed evidence of prolonged sexual abuse.

The main suspect, Dr. Andrew Ogbuja, was arraigned on charges of rape and child defilement under the Child Rights Act but was acquitted by a Benue State High Court in 2021 due to insufficient evidence. His wife, Felicia, was convicted and sentenced to five months in prison for negligence.

Victor Ogbuja, the lecturer’s son and alleged accomplice, was never tried despite an existing arrest warrant. He is reportedly living freely and pursuing a music career.

The renewed #JusticeForOchanya campaign gained momentum last week after activists decried the failure of authorities to ensure accountability. Human rights advocates are calling on the Benue State Government, police, and Ministry of Justice to reopen the case.

Within 48 hours, the hashtag had generated thousands of posts online, with users expressing outrage, sharing survivor stories, and demanding Victor’s arrest.

Among those lending their voice to the movement is Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who vowed to pursue the case in the National Assembly. She called on the victim’s family to submit a formal petition and pledged to ensure the matter receives renewed attention.

She described the case as “heart-wrenching” and reiterated her commitment to securing justice for Ochanya and other victims of sexual violence.

The revived campaign has also become a rallying point for advocates linking it to broader national conversations about gender-based violence and child protection. Many have tied it to ongoing efforts under the #EndChildMarriage and #ProtectOurGirls movements, calling for stronger enforcement of child rights laws and protection systems across Nigeria.