Father-in-Law Allegedly Assaults, Padlocks Widow and Her Children Days After Husband’s Death

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A grieving widow’s desperate cry for help has sparked widespread outrage after a viral video allegedly captured the horrifying moment she was threatened and assaulted just days after losing her husband. The incident has now led to the arrest of her father-in-law, with the Lagos State Government assuring the public that justice will be served.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man accused of threatening, assaulting and intimidating his daughter-in-law shortly after the death of her husband in Ikorodu, Lagos. The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) confirmed the arrest after a viral video showed the widow pleading for help as she was allegedly attacked.

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man over allegations of threatening, physically assaulting and intimidating his daughter-in-law, who was left widowed only days earlier.

The arrest was confirmed on Tuesday by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) following the circulation of a viral video showing the 28-year-old widow, identified simply as Tosin, crying out for help during the alleged attack.

In the emotional video, Tosin was heard pleading with one of the individuals in the room to stop dragging her mobile phone, which she later claimed was smashed on the floor during the confrontation.

“You are inconveniencing me. I will not allow anyone to go on the errand. Leave me alone. Hammed, you did not do well. Death caused all of these things. See the way I am being beaten,” she cried.

A male voice could also be heard in the background saying:
“You will leave this house.”

According to reports, Tosin’s husband died on July 20 in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State. However, only a few days after his burial, she allegedly faced attempts by members of her late husband’s family to force her and her two children out of their home.

Human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu alleged that the widow’s father-in-law and brother-in-law moved into the residence and instructed Tosin and her two sons to relocate to a single room.

He further claimed that some of the deceased’s personal belongings had already been shared among family members and that attempts were being made to sell his vehicle without the widow’s consent.

Confirming its intervention in a statement posted on X, the DSVA said its preliminary findings supported Tosin’s allegations of threats, physical assault and intimidation.

According to the agency, the matter was reported to the Owutu Police Division, where an investigation was immediately launched.

“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,” the statement read.

“As part of its intervention, the Agency commenced engagement with the investigating police officers handling the case. Preliminary feedback from the Police confirms that the alleged perpetrator has been arrested and is currently in custody, while investigations continue.”

Furthermore, the agency reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to protecting survivors of domestic and gender-based violence.

It also assured the public that the safety of the widow and her children remains a priority while promising that justice would be pursued in accordance with the law.

“We appreciate concerned 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 added.
Police investigations into the allegations are ongoing.