JusticeForOchanya: Nigerians Demand Reopening Of Case 7 Years After Her Death
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the JusticeForOchanya has resurfaced across social media platforms as Nigerians call for justice, seven years after the death of 13-year-old Elizabeth Ochanya Ogbanje, who died following years of alleged sexual abuse.
Ochanya, a teenage girl from Benue State, had been living with her uncle, Dr Andrew Ogbuja, in Makurdi to attend school. Reports revealed that she was repeatedly raped by both Dr Ogbuja and his son, Victor Ogbuja, over several years.
She later died in 2018 due to complications from Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) and other abuse-related health issues.
While Dr Ogbuja was arraigned and faced trial, many Nigerians believe the justice system failed to fully prosecute all those involved.
Ochanya’s aunt, Felicia Ogbuja, was convicted for negligence, exposing the child to rape. She was jailed for five months without an option of fine for failing to protect the child from her husband, but the State High Court, about the same time, exonerated the man.
Victor Ogbuja, who was also accused, was never convicted, and the case eventually faded from public view.
However, in October 2025, Nigerians are once again demanding justice. Thousands of users on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, TikTok and Instagram have called for the reopening of the case, accusing the justice system of failing Ochanya and others like her.
Many are calling for a full investigation into why the second accused, Victor, was never held accountable.
Child rights activist Betty Abah expressed concern over the ongoing absence of Victor Ogbuja and urged relevant authorities, including the Benue State Government, Nigeria Police Force, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Women Affairs, and Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, to reopen the case.
She noted that Andrew Ogbuja was acquitted by the Benue State High Court, while Felicia Ogbuja, Ochanya’s aunt and guardian, was sentenced to five months in prison for negligence. Victor Ogbuja, however, fled and remains at large.
“Reports indicate he is now in Lagos pursuing a music career despite an active arrest warrant. It is time to reopen the case and ensure that Ochanya receives justice, even after her death,” Ms Abah wrote on her Facebook page.
Popular chef and influencer Hilda Baci took to Instagram to announce her donation to the GoFundMe fund supporting the pursuit of justice for Elizabeth Ochanya.
“This isn’t about social media trends or relevance. It’s about standing together for something bigger than all of us. Helping this young girl get justice gives strength and confidence to others who have suffered similar pain but are still here, trying to heal,” she wrote, urging the public to show they care and stand united against abuse.
The trend has sparked renewed discussions about the safety of girls, accountability of guardians, and the gaps in Nigeria’s judicial response to sexual and gender-based violence.
Some have also criticised the silence from state authorities and law enforcement agencies, saying this case reflects a broader culture of silence around abuse in Nigeria, especially when the victims are minors and the perpetrators are relatives.
As the hashtag continues to trend, Nigerians await a formal response from the judiciary and relevant authorities on whether the case will be revisited.
