Senator Natasha Urges Senate to Probe Death of 13-Year-Old Ochanya, Accuses Authorities of Blocking Justice

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central (PDP) has petitioned the Nigerian Senate, calling for an urgent investigation into the death of 13-year-old Ochanya Ogbanje and accusing some individuals of obstructing justice.

The petition, submitted on Wednesday during plenary on behalf of Inibehe Effiong Chambers, highlights alleged failures by authorities to hold the prime suspects accountable. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed concern that key officials were attempting to “shield those responsible from accountability.”

Ochanya, a student of the Federal Government Girls College, Gboko, died on 17 October 2018 after reportedly suffering complications from prolonged sexual abuse. She had lived with the Ogbuja family from the age of five, where she allegedly endured repeated abuse by both Victor Ogbuja and his father, Andrew Ogbuja, which ultimately led to severe health complications and her death.

The petition urges the immediate arrest and prosecution of Victor Ogbuja, who reportedly absconded, and calls on the Benue State Government to appeal the acquittal of Andrew Ogbuja by the High Court. It also criticises the Nigeria Police Force for failing to rearrest Victor, highlighting what Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described as persistent delays and negligence.

Presenting the petition, the senator said:
“This petition is on the refusal to arrest and prosecute Victor and Andrew Ogbuja for the rape to death of 13-year-old Ochanya Ogbanje. Ms. Ochanya was sent to live with her maternal aunt, Felicia Ogbuja, at the age of five in pursuit of better education. But unfortunately, her uncle, Andrew Ogbuja, and his son Victor took turns to abuse her from the age of six until she died at 13.”

She added that the deceased “suffered severe violations for years, yet justice continues to be delayed and denied.” The Senate is expected to refer the petition to the appropriate committee for further legislative action.