The Lagos State Government has confirmed the arrest of a suspect following allegations that a 28-year-old widow, identified as Tosin, was allegedly threatened, assaulted, and intimidated by members of her late husband’s family in Ikorodu in a bid to take over her home and inheritance.
The update was provided on Wednesday by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) after videos and social media posts about the woman’s situation sparked widespread public concern.
According to the agency, it became aware of the case on Tuesday, July 28, following reports that Tosin’s father-in-law, mother-in-law, brother-in-law, and the brother-in-law’s wife were allegedly harassing her and attempting to force her and her children out of their residence.
After making contact with the widow, the DSVA said she alleged that she had been facing death threats, physical attacks, and intimidation since the passing of her husband.
She also disclosed that the matter had already been reported to the Owutu Police Division.
The agency said it immediately began working with the police officers handling the investigation and later received confirmation that one of the alleged suspects had been arrested and is currently 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 stated.
The agency also thanked members of the public and partner organisations for bringing the incident to light.
“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 case gained national attention after human rights activist Harrison Gwamnishu shared videos and photographs on X alleging that the widow was being mistreated by her late husband’s relatives.
In one of the videos, Gwamnishu claimed Tosin’s father-in-law locked the gate of the family home, leaving her outside despite reportedly owning another house.
“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 a separate post, Gwamnishu alleged that Tosin’s husband died on July 20, 2026, and that only eight days later, his family had moved into the couple’s home and instructed the widow and her two sons to keep all their belongings in just one room.
He further claimed that some of the deceased’s properties had already been shared among family members, while efforts were also being made to sell his car.
The activist called on the Lagos State Government and the DSVA to protect the widow and her children from intimidation, unlawful eviction, and any attempt to deny them access to the inheritance left behind by her late husband.
“No widow should have to fight for dignity, shelter, and justice just days after losing her husband,” he said.
