The Lagos State Government has confirmed that a suspect has been arrested following reports alleging that a 28-year-old widow, identified simply as Tosin, was being thre.atened, a.ssaulted, and intimidated by members of her late husband’s family in Ikorodu over her home and inheritance
The development was announced on Wednesday by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) after widespread outrage on social media over videos and posts highlighting the widow’s ordeal.
According to the agency, it received reports on Tuesday, July 28, alleging that Tosin’s father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and the brother-in-law’s wife were threatening and attempting to force her and her children out of their home.
The DSVA said it immediately reached out to the widow, who alleged that she had been subjected to death threats, physical assault, and intimidation following the death of her husband.
She also informed the agency that she had already filed a complaint at the Owutu Police Division.
The agency said it quickly engaged with the police officers handling the case, adding that preliminary updates confirmed one of the alleged perpetrators had been arrested and remains in custody while investigations continue.
“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 DSVA said.
The agency also commended members of the public and partner organisations for drawing attention to the case.
“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,” it added.
The government’s response came after human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu shared videos and photos on X detailing the widow’s alleged harassment.
In one post, Gwamnishu shared a video showing Tosin’s father-in-law allegedly locking the gate of the family house and preventing her from entering, despite reportedly owning a separate residence.
“Standing with young widow Tosin. This man here is Tosin’s father-in-law. See him padlocking the gate, locking Tosin outside,” he wrote.
“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. While waiting for LAGOSDSVA, a petition will be submitted to the Lagos Police Command to ensure Tosin and her children are protected.
“Demand is simple: In-laws move to your house and allow Tosin to mourn her late husband.”
In another post, Gwamnishu alleged that Tosin’s husband had died just eight days earlier and that his family had already moved into the couple’s home.
He claimed the relatives ordered the widow and her two young sons to confine all their belongings to a single room while taking over the rest of the house.
He further alleged that some of the deceased’s properties had already been shared among family members and that plans were underway to sell his car.
Gwamnishu appealed to the Lagos State Government and the DSVA to intervene, saying the widow and her children deserved protection from intimidation, unlawful eviction, and any attempt to deny them their rightful inheritance.
“No widow should have to fight for dignity, shelter, and justice just days after losing her husband,” he said.
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