Ese Rita Oruru, the young Bayelsa girl whose tragic abduction and forced marriage in 2015 stirred national outrage, has achieved an inspiring milestone – she has graduated from the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) with a Second-Class Upper degree in Education Technology.
Newsonspot reports that nearly a decade ago, Ese’s name dominated headlines across Nigeria after she was abducted from her mother’s shop in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, by Yunusa Dahiru, popularly known as “Yellow.” She was taken to Kano State, where she was reportedly converted to Islam and forced into marriage under disturbing circumstances that drew widespread condemnation.
The case sparked massive public pressure and intervention from the Nigeria Police Force, women’s rights groups, and child protection advocates, all demanding justice and her safe return. Ese was finally rescued in February 2016, though she was already pregnant from her captivity.
That painful episode became a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against child abuse, gender-based violence, and forced marriages.
Former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, celebrated Ese’s academic success in a heartfelt post on social media.
“I am super-joyful to honor and celebrate the academic achievement of Ese Oruru! Ese graduated with a Second-Class Upper Division in Education Technology today at the University of Ilorin and now stands as a testament to what a determined mind can accomplish,” Ezekwesili wrote.
“Above all, I thank God for Ese. The future holds so much promise for this young woman whose life has evolved into an extraordinary inspiration and role model for us all.”
Ese’s abductor, Yunusa Dahiru, was later convicted and sentenced in 2020 to 26 years in prison by the Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, after being found guilty of child abduction, unlawful carnal knowledge, and sexual exploitation of a minor.
News of Ese’s graduation has sparked an outpouring of joy and admiration on social media, where many Nigerians have hailed her as a beacon of strength and perseverance.
An X (formerly Twitter) user, @Eyenese, wrote:
“Congratulations to her. This is the girl one pedophile kidnapped in Bayelsa and forced into marriage. Thankfully, there was a massive outcry and she was rescued.”
Another user, @Luqman, described her as “a symbol of survival and courage,” while @Sapphire added,
“I remember her story – thank God for all those who spoke out and rescued her from those evil men. Congratulations, Ese.”
@Oyemakun wrote:
“Wow, how time flies! The innocent girl that one hopeless man almost ruined her destiny. By now, she might have had several children living in poverty. God turned her story around beautifully.”
Today, Ese Oruru’s story has come full circle – transforming from a symbol of victimhood to one of resilience, courage, and hope. Her journey from trauma to triumph reminds Nigerians that with education, support, and determination, survivors can rebuild their lives and inspire others to do the same.
Ese’s success is more than a personal victory; it is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of giving every survivor the chance to rise beyond their pain and reclaim their future.
