The Lagos State government has confirmed the arrest of a suspect over the alleged intimidation, assault and attempted dispossession of a widow following the death of her husband in Ikorodu.
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying it swung into action after receiving reports on Tuesday about the woman’s ordeal.
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According to the agency, the widow alleged that members of her late husband’s family had threatened her life, physically assaulted her and attempted to take over properties belonging to her and her children.
The agency withheld the widow’s identity, who lives in Ikorodu with her two children.
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Background
The case gained public attention after activist Harrison Gwamnishu shared details on social media on Tuesday.
According to Mr Gwamnishu, following the death of the woman’s husband on 20 July, his father, mother and brother allegedly attempted to dispossess the 28-year-old widow of her home and other assets.
He alleged that the relatives ordered the widow to move all her belongings and those of her two sons into a single room in the house and were planning to sell the deceased’s car and share his properties.
Arrest
The DSVA said the widow had already reported the matter to the Owutu Police Division.
It said it immediately engaged the investigating officers handling the case.
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“Preliminary feedback from the police confirms that the alleged perpetrator has been arrested and is currently in custody, while investigations continue,” the statement said.
The agency said the Lagos State government remains committed to ensuring the safety and protection of the widow and her children while working with relevant stakeholders to ensure justice is served in accordance with the law.
It also commended members of the public and partner organisations whose vigilance and prompt reporting continue to strengthen the state’s response to sexual and gender-based violence.
The agency urged residents experiencing domestic violence, abuse or intimidation to report such cases for intervention promptly.
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