Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has petitioned the Nigerian Senate to launch an urgent investigation into the death of 13-year-old Ochanya Ogbanje, who reportedly suffered years of sexual abuse.
The petition, submitted on Wednesday during plenary on behalf of Inibehe Effiong Chambers, accuses some individuals of attempting to shield those responsible from accountability. It demands the arrest and prosecution of Victor Ogbuja, the prime suspect, and urges the Benue State Government to challenge the acquittal of his father, Andrew Ogbuja.
According to the petition, Ochanya, a student at the Federal Government Girls College, Gboko, was sent to live with her maternal aunt at age five for better educational opportunities. Tragically, she was allegedly sexually abused by both her uncle Andrew Ogbuja and his son Victor from the age of six until her death on October 17, 2018, due to severe health complications.
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan condemned the delays in justice, citing the Nigeria Police Force’s failure to rearrest Victor Ogbuja after he absconded, and the state government’s refusal to appeal Andrew Ogbuja’s acquittal. She said, “Ms Ochanya suffered severe violations for years, yet justice continues to be delayed and denied. This case represents a failure of the system to protect a child.”
She further revealed that Ochanya developed vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) and other medical complications from repeated abuse, urging the Senate to ensure accountability and review how children’s rights cases are handled nationwide.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, chaired by Senator Neda Imasuen, for review, noting no ongoing legal proceedings.
The case has continued to attract public attention, with the hashtag #JusticeForOchanya trending on social media on the seventh anniversary of her death. While Andrew Ogbuja was acquitted in April 2022 due to insufficient evidence, Victor Ogbuja remains at large. Felicia Ochiga-Ogbuja, Ochanya’s aunt, received a five-month sentence for negligence in failing to protect her.
Ochanya’s family has reportedly faced threats, with her uncle appealing to the Federal Government, the Inspector-General of Police, and advocacy groups for protection and justice.
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