Everyone is Coming Together for #JusticeForChristiannah

The hashtag #JusticeForChristiannah is trending in Nigeria as the country mourns the tragic death of 21-year-old Christiannah Idowu, a student from FUNAAB. Christiannah was reportedly murdered by someone she knew, sparking widespread calls for justice.

On August 19, 2024, Christiannah went missing after her mother received a troubling message from her WhatsApp account.

The kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦1.5 million, giving the family only 24 hours to pay. Christiannah had been travelling from her home in Itaoluwo, Ikorodu, to the University of Lagos in Yaba for industrial training.

She sought shelter from the rain at Ayomide Adeleye’s home, a student from Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) whom she knew.

Tragically, Ayomide attempted to assault Christiannah while she was at his house. As she resisted, he allegedly killed her. Christiannah’s family managed to raise ₦350,000, which Ayomide received through a betting account.

Investigators traced the ransom transaction back to Ayomide and confirmed on August 29 that the betting account was linked to him.

Police tracked his phone to his family’s home in Ikorodu, where they arrested him with help from military personnel. They discovered incriminating evidence, including Christiannah’s phone, bank details, and email exchanges with her family.

On September 3, 2024, Ayomide confessed to the murder and revealed that he had buried Christiannah’s body at his family home. The Nigerian Army’s 81 Division confirmed his arrest today through spokesperson Lt-Col. Olabisi Ayeni.

The details of Christiannah’s death have sparked national outrage. Nigerians and celebrities are using social media to demand #JusticeForChristiannah.

Singer Adekunle Gold addressed the issue on X, urging men to redefine masculinity by holding each other accountable for gender-based violence.

He wrote, “Men, true strength is not about staying silent; rather, it involves standing up to friends who abuse, rape, or demean women.

Furthermore, it requires actively confronting and challenging such behaviour to make a real difference.” Let’s redefine masculinity by holding each other accountable. #JusticeForChristiannah.”

Ayra Starr also joined the call for justice. She expressed her outrage and emphasized that men must stop killing and assaulting women.

Furthermore, she stressed the need for immediate action to address these issues. She stated, “Women deserve better.”

Chike and Simi also voiced their demands for justice. Chike wrote, “Stop killing women!!!” Simi urged, “Don’t let abusive friends feel comfortable around you.

You’re part of the problem too. #JusticeForChristiannah #JusticeForWomenEverywhere.” Christiannah Idowu’s death has sparked a strong movement for justice and a call to address gender-based violence.