In a compelling display of community leadership and social justice, the family of the late Samuel Obi in Achi Community, Oji-River Local Government Area of Enugu State has returned N1.6 million to his widow, Mrs. Ukamaka Obi, following the strategic intervention of the First Lady of Enugu State, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah. The incident, which highlights entrenched cultural practices around widowhood and inheritance, has sparked public discussion on women’s rights, dignity, and community responsibility.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Background: Controversial Withdrawal After Death of Husband
The controversy began after the sudden passing of Mr. Samuel Obi. According to reports, extended family members withdrew N1.6 million from Mr. Obi’s bank account using his ATM card following his death. The widow, Mrs. Ukamaka, was reportedly denied access to her late husband’s account, and the ATM card was taken from her. She was left to care for her two young children — a three-year-old boy and a one-year-old girl — without access to the funds that were rightfully hers.
The situation, described by many local observers as not only unfair but also harmful, reflects a broader issue of harmful widowhood practices that persist in some communities, where widows are sometimes deprived of financial access or support after the death of a spouse.
The Turning Point: Intervention by the Governor’s Wife
News of Mrs. Obi’s plight reached the office of Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, wife of Governor Peter Mbah, who took swift action through her office and the Custos Care Foundation — a social welfare initiative known for community outreach and support programs.
Working in collaboration with local leaders, including the Chairman of Oji-River Council, Mr. Greg Anyaegbudike, his wife, Mrs. Uche Anyaegbudike, and other community stakeholders, the intervention team engaged with the family to mediate the dispute. Their efforts culminated in the family returning the full N1.6 million and the ATM card to Mrs. Obi — a move that has been widely applauded by rights advocates, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens alike.
Voices from the Intervention
In a formal statement, representatives for Mrs. Mbah condemned the act of seizing the widow’s access to her husband’s rightful funds. The intervention team described the behavior as “inhuman and harmful widowhood practice” that should have “no place in modern society.” They emphasized the importance of protecting women’s rights and ensuring that vulnerable family members, especially widows and children, are not left destitute after the loss of a spouse.
The Managing Director of Custos Care Foundation, Egodi Igwe, also spoke out against the actions of the extended family members, calling the behavior “despicable and unacceptable.” Their leadership stressed the need for broader community awareness and advocacy to prevent similar situations in other parts of the state.
Similarly, the Oji-River Council Chairman voiced his support for the widow and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and upholding community values that promote fairness and dignity.
Social Impact and Larger Conversations
The return of the funds has become more than just a resolution to a family dispute — it has ignited wider conversations about ethical custodianship, women’s financial rights, and cultural practices that influence inheritance and widowhood in parts of Nigeria.
Many human rights advocates have pointed out that customary practices sometimes conflict with statutory rights under Nigerian law, particularly where women’s financial access and property rights are concerned. The intervention by Mrs. Mbah’s office is being seen by some observers as a positive example of how government partners and community leaders can collaborate to protect citizens’ rights and address deep-rooted social issues.
Looking Forward: Continuing Advocacy and Education
As the story continues to draw media attention, there are calls for more awareness campaigns that educate communities on women’s rights and the importance of ethical inheritance practices. Local leaders and civil society groups are also encouraging state agencies to support widows more broadly through legal aid and counseling services.
Ultimately, the case serves as a reminder that when public officials and compassionate leaders take decisive action, it can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable citizens.
Source:
News Agency of Nigeria via Peoples Gazette & Realnews Magazine — “Family returns widow’s N1.6 million after Governor’s wife’s intervention”.
