Imo State Government Rescues Widow Forced to Drink Bathwater in Harmful Ritual

A widow named Mrs. Chika Ndubuisi was rescued by the Imo State Government after her husband’s relatives allegedly tried to make her drink water used to bathe his body to prove her innocence in his death.

The disturbing incident occurred in Awo-Omamma, located in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State. Authorities were alerted by a women’s advocacy group that condemned the act as a form of abuse disguised as tradition.

The State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare quickly took action after learning about the situation. Lady Nkechinyere Ugwu, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, described the ritual as “antiquated and inhumane,”expressing disbelief that such acts still persist in modern society.

According to her, forcing a grieving woman to drink bathwater from her late husband’s body was “savage, vicious, and wholly unfit for a civilized society.”

In response, Chioma Uzodinma, the wife of the Imo State Governor, ordered an immediate and thorough investigation to ensure those involved face justice.

Reports indicated that Mrs. Ndubuisi’s in-laws accused her of causing her husband’s death and detained her beside his body. Their attempt to force her to drink the water was thwarted when officials from the Ministry, local council, and security operatives intervened after a tip-off from the advocacy group.

Commissioner Ugwu confirmed that arrests have been made, adding that the widow and her children are now in government protection.

“Normalcy has been restored, and a detailed investigation is underway. Mrs. Ndubuisi and her children are under government protection,” the Commissioner said.

This case has renewed public discourse around harmful widowhood practices that still exist in some parts of Nigeria. Human rights groups continue to call for education, enforcement, and awareness to protect widows from abuse under the guise of tradition.

The Imo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting women and upholding human dignity through stronger community monitoring and legal action against perpetrators.