…State vows to prosecute perpetrators, condemn harmful widowhood practices
By Our Correspondent
The Imo State Government has rescued a widow, Mrs. Chika Ndubuisi, from her husband’s kinsmen who allegedly forced her to drink the water used to bathe his corpse as a way to prove her innocence over his death.
The disturbing incident occurred in Awo-Omamma community in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State. According to reports, the relatives of the deceased accused the widow of being responsible for her husband’s death and subjected her to a degrading traditional ritual meant to cleanse her of supposed guilt.
The cruel act came to public attention after a women’s advocacy group raised an alarm and notified the Imo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare. Officials of the ministry, led by Commissioner Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, immediately intervened and rescued Mrs. Ndubuisi from further harm.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the ministry condemned the inhuman treatment meted out to the widow, describing it as a barbaric and unlawful act that has no place in a civilized society. The commissioner assured that those responsible would face justice and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women in the state.
The ministry also confirmed that Mrs. Ndubuisi is receiving medical care and psychosocial support while the police have begun investigations into the matter.
Women’s rights organizations have commended the prompt intervention of the Imo State Government and called for stronger efforts to end harmful widowhood practices still found in some communities.
They urged community and traditional leaders to lead the campaign against such outdated customs, emphasizing that practices which dehumanize women are violations of human rights and a stain on the moral values of society.
