Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has reignited calls for justice in the tragic case of Ochanya Elizabeth Ogbanje, a 13-year-old girl who died in 2018 after years of alleged sexual abuse. This renewed demand follows the recent acquittal of the accused by a Benue State court, a decision that has sparked widespread public outrage and revived the #JusticeForOchanya campaign.
Ochanya, who suffered from Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) and other complications linked to prolonged abuse, had reportedly been molested by her aunt’s husband, Andrew Ogbuja, and his son, Victor Ogbuja, since the age of eight. Despite initial arrests and prosecution, the court recently discharged and acquitted the accused, citing insufficient evidence.
In a statement shared on her official social media platforms, Senator Natasha expressed deep disappointment over the court’s ruling. “Seven years ago, the heart-wrenching story of little Ochanya devastated me. I thought the perpetrators were in jail. Alas, they were discharged and acquitted,” she wrote.
The Senator emphasized that the case represents a broader failure of the justice system to protect vulnerable children and prosecute sexual violence effectively. “We must not allow this injustice to stand. Ochanya’s story is a painful reminder of the work we must do to protect every Nigerian child,” she stated.