Hilda Baci Donates ₦2 Million, Calls for Justice for Late 13-Year-Old Ochanya Ogbanje
Renowned Nigerian chef and Guinness World Record holder, Hilda Baci, has announced a ₦2 million donation to support the ongoing fight for justice for 13-year-old Elizabeth Ochanya Ogbanje, whose tragic death in 2018 followed years of alleged sexual abuse by her guardian and his son.
The celebrity chef, known globally for her record-breaking cooking marathon in 2023, made the announcement on her official Instagram page, expressing deep sorrow over Ochanya’s ordeal and emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to protect vulnerable children in Nigeria.
“Ochanya should have been safe, loved, and protected,” Baci wrote. “We can’t undo what happened to her, but we can make sure her story leads to change.”
A Symbolic Donation for a National Cause
In her post, Baci explained that the ₦2 million donation would be divided between two reputable non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that provide direct support to survivors of rape and sexual violence. She also invited the public to participate in nominating trustworthy NGOs to ensure transparency in the selection process.
“To support that cause, I’m pledging ₦2,000,000 to organisations working with rape and sexual abuse survivors,” she stated. “Please nominate trusted NGOs in the comments section so my team can review and select those most committed to the cause.”
The chef clarified that her goal is not only to contribute to the #JusticeForOchanya campaign but also to strengthen long-term initiatives that help survivors heal, rebuild their lives, and find justice.
From Sympathy to Action
Baci’s post was both heartfelt and challenging, urging Nigerians to move beyond online activism and turn sympathy into sustainable action.
“Honouring her memory means doing more than posting hashtags,” she said. “It means showing up for those who are still here — making sure no one ever feels alone in their pain again.”
She added that the tragedy of Ochanya’s story reflects a broader societal failure to protect children, particularly girls, from abuse and exploitation. Baci called for systemic reforms, greater accountability from law enforcement, and a shift in societal attitudes toward gender-based violence.
Amplifying the Fight for Justice
In addition to her donation, Hilda Baci used her platform to promote the GoFundMe campaign supporting legal costs in the ongoing pursuit of justice for Ochanya. She encouraged her followers to contribute financially or raise awareness through social media.
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“Every contribution helps move the legal process forward and strengthens the fight for justice. And if you can’t give financially, that’s okay—you can still lend your voice,” she said.
Her post included hashtags such as #JusticeForOchanya, #EndChildAbuse, and #ProtectOurGirls, which quickly trended on social media following her announcement.
A Story That Shook the Nation
Ochanya’s death in 2018 sparked national outrage after investigations revealed that she had been repeatedly assaulted by her guardian, Andrew Ogbuja, and his son Victor Ogbuja, over several years while living with them in Benue State. The abuse reportedly led to severe health complications, including vesicovaginal fistula, which ultimately resulted in her death.
The case inspired the #JusticeForOchanya movement, which continues to advocate for stronger child protection laws and accountability for sexual offenders in Nigeria.
Public Reaction and Support
Following Baci’s announcement, social media platforms were flooded with messages of support and admiration. Many Nigerians praised her for using her influence to spotlight a sensitive but critical national issue.
One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote:
“This is what true celebrity activism looks like. Hilda is showing that influence should be used for impact.”
Another added:
“Hilda Baci’s gesture gives hope that there are still people willing to stand up for the voiceless. Justice must be served for Ochanya.”
Beyond Celebrity Advocacy
Hilda Baci’s action comes at a time when conversations around child protection and sexual violence are gaining renewed attention in Nigeria. Her public involvement has reignited national interest in Ochanya’s case, which many feared was fading from the public eye.
By pledging both funds and visibility to the cause, Baci has not only honoured Ochanya’s memory but also encouraged broader participation in the fight against abuse. Her statement reflects a growing recognition among Nigerian public figures that social responsibility extends beyond entertainment and personal success.
“This is not just about Ochanya,” Baci concluded. “It’s about every child who has suffered silently, every survivor still waiting for justice, and every community that must do better.”
As Nigerians continue to call for justice, Hilda Baci’s advocacy stands as a reminder that empathy, when paired with action, can transform grief into meaningful change.