At the age of 13, Ovey Friday was accused of witchcraft by his stepmother and taken to a traditional shrine in Nigeria’s Nasarawa state, where he endured torture. By the time help arrived, he had suffered irreversible damage. Now aged 19, Friday recalls the horrific moments of being tortured. Doctors were forced to sedate him during surgery, after which he woke up to discover his left hand had been amputated and the fingers on his right hand were permanently scarred. Despite societal stigma and personal loss, Friday's determination led him to pursue a university education in English and literary studies. His story not only illuminates personal resilience but also reflects the broader struggles faced by disabled individuals in Nigeria, where systems often fail to accommodate those with disabilities. Thankfully, advocacy from his guardians and disability rights activists allowed him to take necessary entrance tests despite his challenges. Today, he stands as a beacon of hope for many, proving that obstacles can be overcome with determination and support.
Ovey Friday: Overcoming Adversity for Education in Nigeria

Ovey Friday: Overcoming Adversity for Education in Nigeria
Ovey Friday, a 19-year-old Nigerian student, shares his journey of overcoming immense challenges after being tortured and losing his hand. Despite such hardships, he is determined to succeed in education and inspire others.
At just 13, Ovey Friday was accused of witchcraft and tortured, leading to the loss of his left hand. Now 19, he battles societal prejudices to pursue a degree in English and literary studies. His journey reflects resilience and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by disabled individuals in Nigeria.

















