Global human rights watchdog, Amnesty International, has renewed calls for justice for the late 13-year-old Ochanya Ogbanje, whose tragic death in Benue State after years of sexual abuse continues to stir outrage.
In a statement released on Thursday, the organisation urged the Nigerian authorities to reopen the investigation into Ochanya’s case and ensure that all those involved in her abuse and its subsequent cover-up are prosecuted.
Ochanya, a secondary school student, died from complications of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) following prolonged sexual assault by her uncle, Andrew Ogbuja, and his son, Victor Ogbuja. Despite extensive evidence, including a recorded video testimony and medical autopsy reports, Amnesty International lamented that justice has not been served.
According to the group, while Andrew Ogbuja was acquitted of the charges, Victor remains at large, and Felicia Ogbuja, the victim’s aunt, received only a five-month jail sentence for negligence.
“It is appalling that rape persists in Nigeria, with most survivors denied justice, rapists avoiding prosecution, and hundreds of cases going unreported due to pervasive corruption, stigma, and victim-blaming,” Amnesty International stated.
The organisation said the handling of Ochanya’s case underscores a systemic failure in Nigeria’s justice system — one marked by toxic misogyny, poor law enforcement, and institutional indifference.
“Consistent failure of law enforcement to investigate rape cases, toxic misogyny, and insufficient support for survivors have created a culture of silence and impunity that continues to fail hundreds of women and girls every year,” the statement added.
Amnesty International further called on the Nigerian government to strengthen mechanisms for handling sexual offences, provide adequate legal, medical, and psychological support for survivors, and ensure that perpetrators of gender-based violence face the full weight of the law.
Reaffirming its commitment to standing with victims of sexual violence, the group said the case of Ochanya Ogbanje remains a stark reminder of the urgent need to confront impunity and protect vulnerable women and girls across the country.
