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Prominent socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu has expressed her support for the renewed demand for justice for the late 13-year-old Benue girl, Ochanya Ogbanje.
According to DAILY POST, Ochanya passed away in 2018 after struggling with Vesicovagina Fistula (VVF), which resulted from years of repeated sexual assault.
Ochanya was reportedly raped for several years by her aunt’s husband, Andrew Ogbuja, and his son, Victor Ogbuja.
Andrew Ogbuja, who is a lecturer at the Benue State Polytechnic in Ugbokolo, along with his son Victor, allegedly began molesting Ochanya when she was just eight years old.
Reports indicate that the suspects were arrested and brought to trial but were later acquitted.
Recently, the suspects were allegedly seen in Lagos, walking freely, which has sparked renewed outrage across various social media platforms.
Earlier on Thursday, Kogi Central senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan had reached out for the victim, urging her family to submit a new petition to her office.
In a similar vein, Aisha Yesufu took to her official X account to express her sorrow over the situation.
Despite revealing that she is currently experiencing a lump in her chest, the activist conveyed her determination to support the call for justice.
She stated, “I am in pain as I write this. Ochanya will always serve as a reminder of my shortcomings as a Nigerian adult. I failed her and countless others. As I write this, I feel a painful lump in my chest.
“When this issue arose many years ago, we championed it even though we couldn’t save her. We did not protect her and prevent the suffering her family has had to endure.
“What brings me some joy despite this tragic story? It is the emergence of young Nigerians like you who are using your voices and platforms to speak out against injustices.
“I have often mentioned in interviews that many Nigerians, especially the youth, are now asserting their voices and making themselves heard, and that even without my input, many issues are resonating louder than I could ever amplify them.”
Who was Ochanya Ogbanje?
Ochanya Ogbanje was a 13-year-old girl from Benue State, Nigeria, who tragically passed away in 2018 after suffering from Vesicovagina Fistula (VVF) due to years of sexual abuse.
What happened to the suspects in Ochanya's case?
The suspects, Andrew Ogbuja and his son Victor Ogbuja, were arrested and prosecuted but were later acquitted. Recently, they were reportedly seen in Lagos, which has caused public outrage.
What action has Aisha Yesufu taken regarding this case?
Aisha Yesufu has publicly supported the renewed calls for justice for Ochanya and expressed her sorrow over the situation, emphasizing her commitment to advocate for victims of injustice.
