JUSTICE PREVAILS!!!

BRCI successfully secured justice for a survivor of rape in Obubra LGA, Cross River State. The perpetrator, Mr. Ernest Odong Oyira, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison. However, his sentence has been suspended under strict conditions through a plea bargain.

As part of his punishment, Mr. Ernest must compensate the victim’s mother with 300,000 naira in damages. Additionally, he is prohibited from having custody of any female child and from interacting with any child outside his own under supervision. He is also barred from working in institutions caring for children.

The perpetrator will serve the community. For the next six months, he will clean the village market and dispose of refuse properly. Subsequently, for one year, he will maintain the Obubra High Court premises by weeding grass and ensuring cleanliness.

Non-compliance with any of the conditions will result in the immediate reinstatement of his suspended sentence, leading to the original 14-year imprisonment term.

This verdict sends a clear message that perpetrators of sexual violence will be held accountable. Our commitment to seeking justice and protecting the vulnerable remains unwavering.

Thank you BRCI Legal Team led by our Principal Counsel, James Ibor, ActionAid Nigeria, the Nigerian Police, and the Ministry of Justice.