Police arrest 28-year-old widow’s father-in-law over alleged attempt to seize late son’s property
The Lagos State Police Command has arrested the father-in-law of a young widow, Tosin Omolola, over allegations of intimidation, threats and an attempt to dispossess her of her late husband’s property in Ikorodu.
The arrest followed widespread public outrage after a video circulated on social media showing the woman’s father-in-law allegedly padlocking the gate of her late husband’s home and locking her out of the property.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) said it stepped in after receiving reports of the alleged abuse and intimidation of the widow by members of her late husband’s family.
According to the agency, it made contact with the survivor, who alleged that she had been subjected to threats to her life, physical assault and intimidation following the death of her husband. She also informed the agency that she had already reported the matter to the Owutu Police Division.
The DSVA said it immediately engaged the investigating officers handling the case and confirmed that the alleged perpetrator had been arrested and remained in police custody while investigations continued.
“The Lagos State Government remains committed to ensuring the safety and protection of the survivor and her children, while working closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that justice is served in accordance with the law,” the agency said.
The incident attracted widespread attention after activist Harrison Gwamnishu shared a video on Tuesday alleging that the widow’s father-in-law had locked her out of her husband’s home despite owning another residence.
“They are after properties and forgetting there are two children left behind,” Gwamnishu wrote, adding that Tosin had received threats after speaking publicly about her experience.
He also disclosed that a petition would be submitted to the Lagos State Police Command to ensure the safety of the widow and her two children, insisting that her in-laws should vacate the property and allow her to mourn her husband peacefully.
Providing an update on Wednesday, Gwamnishu said the father-in-law’s arrest had led to the mother-in-law and other relatives vacating the house, leaving the property in the possession of Tosin and her two sons.
He added that the development was confirmed during a video call with the widow and noted that the matter was now being handled by the DSVA.
The activist thanked members of the public who helped draw attention to the case and stressed that Lagos law does not permit the harassment, intimidation or unlawful dispossession of widows under the guise of tradition or culture.