Nigeria Police Chief Admits Widows Are Being Stripped of Property and Forced Into Marriages

Nigeria Police Chief Admits Widows Are Being Stripped of Property and Forced Into Marriages

A rising number of widows in Nigeria’s Anambra State are facing property seizures and forced marriages, with the state’s police chief publicly condemning family members who target inheritance while ignoring the welfare of orphans left behind [168468].

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The police chief in Anambra State has condemned a surge in abuses against widows, stating that in-laws often seek to “inherit their late brothers’ wives and property” but fail to support the deceased’s children [168468]. The official highlighted a pattern of property seizure and forced marriages, leaving widows vulnerable without legal protection [168468]. Authorities are urging communities to report violations and uphold the rights of widows under Nigerian law [168468].

Separately, a Nigerian lawyer has accused the police’s Octopus Unit in Port Harcourt of illegal detention, torture, and extortion, alleging that officers demanded 180,000 naira (about $400) for his release [168467]. The lawyer called for urgent scrutiny and stronger oversight of detention facilities, citing widespread human rights abuses at the unit [168467].

Sources

**Nigeria Police Chief: Widows’ Rights Violations Surge in Anambra** #168468Nigeria Police Accused of Torture, Extortion in Port Harcourt #168467

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