Security operatives in Anambra State have arrested a woman and her two children for assaulting their 75-year-old father, Romanus Obidigwe. The suspects, identified as Esther Obidigwe and her children, Ozioma and Obuka Obidigwe, committed the act in the Awba-Ofemmili community, located in the Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
This incident was confirmed in a press release on Wednesday by Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the Media Aide to Ify Obinabo, the state Commissioner for Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare. According to the statement, the arrests were made after the elderly victim reported the ongoing abuse to the ministry.
The statement detailed the victim’s account, in which he described a pattern of physical abuse by his family members. The latest incident occurred when his daughter, Ozioma, sold his firewood without his permission. When he confronted her about it, the three allegedly attacked him, tied him up, and beat him with a rod, causing injuries.
The victim, a retired senior civil servant, further claimed that his family had stopped providing him with food and often stole from him. He particularly accused his eldest son, Obuka, of attempting to claim his retirement benefits without his knowledge.
He also revealed that he had been subjected to years of mistreatment, including a forced cessation of sexual relations with his wife since 2000, which he endured for the sake of maintaining peace in the household.
According to the press release, the assault only ended when a neighbor intervened, after which the family locked him out of his own home.
During questioning, Obuka denied being present during the assault, while his mother, Esther, admitted to the crime. Ozioma, on the other hand, claimed that her actions were in response to something her father had intended to do to her.
Responding to the incident, Commissioner Ify Obinabo vowed to ensure that justice is served for the victim. She warned against such criminal behavior, stating that the current administration is committed to protecting the rights of the oppressed. She also emphasized that the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Welfare is dedicated to the welfare of all citizens, not just women and children.
The suspects have been handed over to the police, where they will face further interrogation and be charged in court.
