Minister of Women Affairs Condemns Sexual Violence, Demands Justice for Ochanya

The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi, has condemned in strong terms the renewed reports and public outrage over the rape and death of 13-year-old Ochanya Elizabeth Ogbanje, calling for urgent and coordinated national action to end all forms of violence against women, girls, and families.

In a statement signed by Jonathan Eze, Special Adviser, Media & Publicity to the Honourable Minister, Sulaiman-Ibrahim described Ochanya’s case as a painful reminder of the persistent dangers facing girls across the country and the need for stronger protection systems, early response mechanisms, and accountability structures.

“The tragic story of Ochanya speaks to the deep need for our society to protect its most vulnerable,” the Minister said. “No girl should have to suffer such cruelty. Every act of gender-based violence is an assault on our shared humanity.”

She emphasized that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs remains fully committed to implementing comprehensive policies and community-based interventions aimed at preventing gender-based violence, supporting survivors, and ensuring that offenders are held accountable under the law.

The Minister further announced that the Ministry will strengthen collaboration with the Ministries of Education, Health, Interior, and Justice, as well as civil society organizations and security agencies, to expand awareness campaigns and create safe reporting channels for victims and families.

Hon. Imaan also commended Nigerians for their collective outrage and sustained advocacy in demanding justice for Ochanya and other victims of gender-based violence. She urged the public to continue using their voices to defend women, girls, and families across the country.

“This renewed national consciousness gives hope that we can build a Nigeria where women and girls live without fear,” she said. “Together, we must ensure that the pain of Ochanya and others like her inspires action — not silence.”

The Minister reaffirmed that under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs will continue to promote a safe, inclusive, and just society for all, where the dignity and rights of every woman and child are respected and protected.