The Women Aid Collective (WACOL) has used the 2026 commemoration of International Women’s Day to spotlight two cases of alleged injustice against women in Nigeria, calling for urgent institutional intervention and public support for the victims.
Speaking at a press conference marking the day, the organisation’s founding director, Prof. Joy Ngozi Ezeilo (OON, SAN), said the annual observance must move beyond symbolic rhetoric to concrete action for women whose rights have been violated.
Ezeilo noted that the event aligns with the global theme for 2026, “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,” stressing that the day should draw attention to real cases of abuse, neglect and systemic injustice faced by women.
According to her, WACOL has handled more than 82,000 cases of violence against women and girls over the past 28 years, underscoring the scale of gender-based violations in Nigeria.
Police Officer’s 28-Year Ordeal
One of the cases highlighted involved a police officer, Grace Ohiaeri, whom WACOL described as a victim of prolonged institutional neglect.
Ezeilo said Ohiaeri performed a heroic act in 1998 when she disarmed a dangerous criminal in order to protect citizens. However, she alleged that instead of being rewarded for bravery, the officer faced years of hardship from the institution she served.
According to WACOL, her salary was stopped the same year without clear justification despite her continued status as a serving officer.
The organisation further alleged that a N20 million relief donation made for her welfare by businessman Arthur Eze later disappeared while under the control of some of her superiors.
The situation, Ezeilo said, has worsened as the now elderly officer reportedly faces eviction from her official police quarters due to proposed renovations.
Describing the situation as a “national disgrace,” Ezeilo urged the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to intervene.
Responding to a question on why the case is being brought up after nearly three decades, Ezeilo attributed the delay to structural weaknesses within the justice system.
She said many victims suffer in silence because of systemic flaws and bureaucratic barriers, stressing that speaking out remains one of the few ways to draw attention to abuse and institutional neglect.
Prof. Ezeilo called on the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to intervene, specifically urging the Inspector-General of Police, Olatuji Disu, and the Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Bitrus Giwa, to restore the officer’s dignity.
WACOL demanded the payment of Ohiaeri’s salary arrears covering the past 28 years, her promotion to the appropriate rank, and an honourable retirement from the force.
Abuse Case Involving Minor
The second case highlighted by the organisation involves Faith Odoh, a mother of four whose family WACOL said has suffered severe poverty and exploitation.
According to the group, Odoh’s 12-year-old daughter was allegedly sexually abused by several men in the community.
Ezeilo said the final suspect in the case was a pastor and neighbourhood watch chairman who had offered the family shelter.
WACOL stated that the suspect is currently awaiting trial but warned that the family now faces eviction and worsening hardship.
The organisation added that the children have been forced out of school and require psychological support and a safe environment to recover from the trauma.
“Give to Gain” Campaign
To respond to both cases, WACOL launched a fundraising initiative tagged “Give to Gain,” aimed at mobilising support for women facing abuse, neglect and vulnerability.
The campaign seeks to secure permanent accommodation for both Ohiaeri and Odoh, while also establishing a sustainable livelihood for Odoh so her children can return to school.
Speaking to our reporter at the press briefing, Amaka Nweke, said “the cases highlight the broader struggle many Nigerian women face when seeking justice.”
Also reacting, Mr. Joseph Ibe, said “the cases should push authorities to strengthen protective systems for vulnerable women and children.”
Ezeilo urged the public, corporate organisations and government institutions to support the initiative, noting that the two cases represent broader patterns of injustice faced by women across the country.
“When we support women and girls, we build stronger communities and shape a just future for everyone,” she said.
She added that Ohiaeri had spent her youth protecting citizens and should not be left destitute in old age, stressing that the country must demonstrate that sacrifice and service will be honoured rather than ignored.
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