The attacks are believed to be linked to Mr. Oghenero’s activism through his NGO, FEJIRO INITIATIVE, which has been critical of early childhood marriage practices. His organization’s outspoken stance against a powerful Chief in Okpe Kingdom, who married an underage girl as a means of debt settlement under a Local Government Empowerment Programme, has made Mr. Oghenero a target. The Chief had guaranteed a loan for the girl’s father, who could not repay it, leading to the forced marriage.

Authorities are investigating the continued threats and violence against Mr. Oghenero and his family, as the community grapples with the clash between traditional customs and human rights advocacy.