/ Sep 30, 2026
/ Sep 30, 2026

Ochanya and the fear of being misunderstood: Silence that empowers abusers

Published on

By

Ochanya — her name still echoes as a painful reminder of how silence can destroy lives. Many victims of abuse live this same reality every day, silenced not because they cannot speak, but because they fear being misunderstood and judged before they’re even heard.

I love to express myself, but sometimes the fear of being misunderstood keeps me silent. I know I’m not alone in these shoes. Some people eventually overcome it later in life, but many of us never do.

We have so much to say, yet we lack the right words to express it. And when the words finally come, our voices betray us — weighed down by the fear of already being condemned.

This silence becomes the abuser’s strength. They know their victims may never find their voice.

If only society would learn to pay attention to the silent cries for help — to notice that subtle shift in behavior, that quiet change in demeanor, and to listen before judging.

Maybe then, we could save the likes of Ochanya before it’s too late.

A little compassion can truly do the magic.

Adeniyi Zion writes from Abuja.

You May Like

6 thoughts on “Ochanya and the fear of being misunderstood: Silence that empowers abusers”

  1. No long roads.
    No overexplaining.
    Only what matters, when it matters.

    Fresh signals.
    Clear mechanics.
    Moments that feel right — not forced.

    This is where rhythm meets timing,
    and timing quietly turns into advantage.

    You scroll — you get it.
    You stay — you feel it.

    https://t.me/s/portable_1WIN

    Slide in.
    Catch the flow.
    Stay where momentum lives.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Most Popular

Must Read

Eid-el-Kabir: FG Declares May 27 and 28 public holidays

FG declares October 1 public holiday for Nigeria’s 66th anniversary

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.   The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the declaration on Wednesday on behalf of the Federal Government in a statement signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani. The minister congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, urging citizens to use the occasion to promote unity, patriotism, peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. Tunji-Ojo also called on Nigerians to emulate the country’s founding fathers by demonstrating love for Nigeria and contributing to the development of a nation that future generations can be proud of. “As we celebrate 66 years of our independence, we should always remember that there is hope for our country and our diversity is our strength,” the minister said. He added that collective determination remained the foundation for building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria. The 2026 Independence Anniversary is being celebrated under the theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity.” According to the Federal Government, the theme reflects its focus on consolidating ongoing reforms and translating their gains into greater opportunities and improved living conditions for Nigerians. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national security, improving public safety and creating an environment where citizens can live and work with confidence. Tinubu to Address Nigerians President Bola Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast on Thursday as part of activities marking the 66th Independence Anniversary. The President returned to Lagos on Tuesday after concluding his working vacation in Europe and is expected to spend the Independence celebrations in the state. He is also expected to attend the premiere of a documentary on the late businessman and politician, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Lagos. According to the Presidency, Tinubu is further expected to hold political meetings in Lagos as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue. Nigeria at 66 Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the country’s first Prime Minister. The country became a republic in 1963, with Nnamdi Azikiwe serving as its first President. Nigeria later experienced periods of military rule and the Civil War before returning to constitutional democracy in 1999. The 2026 anniversary marks 66 years since independence and 27 years of uninterrupted constitutional democracy.
Read more

Editor's Pick

Trending News

Newsletter

Enter your email address and receive notifications of news by email.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

© 2026 GongNews. All Rights Reserved.