Father-in-law locks out 28-year-old widow eight days after husband’s death

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A 28-year-old widow identified as Tosin has become the centre of a viral case involving alleged threats, intimidation, and attempted dispossession by her late husband’s family, just eight days after his death.

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The incident, shared on Tuesday by activist Harrison Gwamnishu on his X handle, has prompted a response from the Lagos State Government, which confirmed that the alleged perpetrator had been arrested.

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In a video posted by the activist, a man identified as Tosin’s father-in-law is seen padlocking the gate of the property, apparently locking the widow out of the house.

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Sharing the footage, Gwamnishu wrote, “Standing with young widow TOSIN. This man here is Tosin’s father-in-law. See him padlocking the gate, locking Tosin outside.

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“He has his own house. They are after properties and forgetting there are two children left behind. Tosin is now being threatened for going public.”

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He added that while awaiting intervention from the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, a petition would be submitted to the Lagos State Police Command.

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“Our demand is simple: In-laws move to your house and allow Tosin to mourn her late husband,” he stated.

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In an earlier post, Gwamnishu alleged that Tosin’s husband died on July 20, 2026, after which members of his family moved into the deceased’s residence at No. 8 Jumofak, Igbo Oluwo Estate, Koya Adeniran, Ikorodu.

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According to him, the widow’s father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law and his wife allegedly ordered her to move all her personal belongings and those of her two young sons into a single room in the house.

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He further claimed that some of the deceased’s belongings had already been shared among family members, while plans were underway to sell his car.

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“This grieving widow is now living in fear for herself and her two children,” Gwamnishu said.

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“She is appealing to the Lagos State Government, especially the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, to urgently intervene and protect her and her children from intimidation, unlawful dispossession and any further actions that may deprive her children of their late father’s inheritance.

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“No widow should have to fight for dignity, shelter and justice just days after losing her husband.”

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Responding in a statement on Tuesday, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency said it became aware of the viral report and immediately contacted the widow.

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According to the agency, the survivor alleged that she had been subjected to threats to her life, physical assault and intimidation following her husband’s death.

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“The Agency successfully established contact with the survivor, who alleged that she had been subjected to threats to her life, physical assault, and intimidation following the recent death of her husband.

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“She further informed the Agency that the matter had already been reported to the Owutu Police Division.

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“As part of its intervention, the Agency commenced engagement with the investigating police 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 read.

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The agency said the Lagos State Government remained 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.

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It also urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of domestic and sexual violence through its official reporting channels.

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