By Uju Chukwuma
A widow in Enugu State, Mrs Ukamaka Obi, has recovered one million, six hundred thousand naira allegedly withdrawn from her late husband’s bank account by family members, following the intervention of the wife of the state governor, Mrs Nkechinyere Mbah.
The incident occurred in Achi Community, Oji-River Local Government Area, where the widow was reportedly denied access to her husband’s account after his death.
The funds were allegedly withdrawn using his ATM card, which was also seized from her.
Mrs Obi, a mother of two young children, was left without access to financial support meant for her family until the matter was brought to the attention of the governor’s wife.
Acting through her office and the Custos Care Foundation, Mrs Mbah intervened by engaging community leaders and the Oji-River Local Government Council, leading to the full recovery of the money and the return of the ATM card to the widow.
Representatives of the governor’s wife described the action against the widow as unacceptable and a violation of basic human dignity, stressing that harmful widowhood practices would not be tolerated.
Community leaders involved in resolving the matter also condemned the act and pledged continued protection for widows and other vulnerable persons.
The Office of the Governor’s Wife has assured Mrs Obi and her children of continued support, while urging families and communities to uphold compassion, fairness and the rule of law in dealing with widows.
