Police arrest father-in-law for locking out widow eight days after husband’s death

Authorities have arrested a man accused of padlocking the gate to his late nephew's property, effectively locking out the widow just eight days after her husband's death. The incident occurred in Ikorodu, Lagos, where the 28-year-old widow, identified as Tosin, allegedly faced harassment and intimidation from her late husband's family in an attempt to dispossess her of property.

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

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) confirmed its intervention after the case gained public attention through a viral video shared by activist Harrison Gwamnishu. The video showed the man, identified as Tosin's father-in-law, padlocking the house gate. The DSVA contacted the widow, who reported experiencing threats to her life, physical assault, and intimidation following her husband's passing. She also indicated that the matter had been reported to the local police division.

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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.

Following the DSVA's engagement with the police, preliminary feedback confirmed the alleged perpetrator's arrest and custody. Investigations are ongoing. The agency assured Tosin and her children of the Lagos State Government's commitment to their safety and protection, vowing to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure justice. The DSVA also commended public and partner organizations for reporting domestic and sexual violence cases, emphasizing their role in strengthening the state's response to gender-based violence.

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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.

Activist Harrison Gwamnishu expressed appreciation for the DSVA's intervention and urged for the perpetrators to be removed from the house, allowing Tosin to mourn her husband peacefully. He stated, "Our first demand: Move them out of the house so Tosin can mourn her late husband in peace. Our client is the legally married wife of the deceased and has lawful rights over h."

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The father-in-law was arrested in the early hours of today and is currently in police custody.