There was outrage in Imo State after a widow, Mrs. Chika Ndubuisi, was reportedly forced by her husband’s kinsmen to drink the water used in bathing his corpse, in a ritual to prove her innocence over his death.
The disturbing incident occurred at Awo-Omamma in Oru East Local Government Area, prompting swift intervention from the Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare after a women advocacy group raised the alarm.
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Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, condemned the act in strong terms, describing it as “barbaric, cruel, and inhuman.” She expressed shock that such primitive widowhood practices still exist in modern Nigeria.
“This is unacceptable in a civilized society. A woman already grieving her husband’s death should not be subjected to further trauma or humiliation,” she said.
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Following her directive, a rescue operation involving the Local Council Authority, security agencies, and non-governmental organizations was launched, leading to the successful rescue of the widow and her children. The perpetrators were reportedly arrested and are now under investigation.
Meanwhile, the First Lady of Imo State, Chioma Uzodinma, has ordered a full investigation to ensure justice for Mrs. Ndubuisi and to deter future occurrences. The widow and her children are currently under government protection as inquiries continue.
Lady Ugwu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to abolishing harmful traditional practices and ensuring that women across the state are protected from abuse and dehumanization.
The shocking incident has reignited conversations about women’s rights and cultural reform in Nigeria, with activists demanding stricter penalties for offenders.
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