In a deeply troubling incident, the Anambra State Government, through its Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, has taken action against a family accused of severely mistreating their elderly patriarch. The incident came to light when Mr. Romanus Obidigwe, a 75-year-old retired senior civil servant, courageously reported the continuous abuse he has been enduring from his wife and two children.
Mr. Obidigwe shared his harrowing experience with officials at the office of the Commissioner for Women Affairs, recounting how his family has been physically abusing him for an extended period. The most recent episode, which led to their arrest, occurred when his daughter, Ozioma, sold his firewood without his permission. When he questioned her, she, along with her mother Esther and brother Obuka, allegedly attacked him. They reportedly tied him up and beat him with a rod, leaving him injured.
The elderly man further revealed that his family had not only been physically abusive but also had been neglecting him by refusing to provide food. Despite the mistreatment, he had accepted the situation to avoid further conflict. Mr. Obidigwe also accused his son, Obuka, of attempting to claim his retirement benefits from the local government without his consent.
In a heart-wrenching confession, Mr. Obidigwe disclosed that his wife, Esther, had enforced a “no sexual relationship” rule since 2000, which he accepted for the sake of peace. He also recounted how his family locked him out of his home after the recent assault, and it was only due to the intervention of a neighbor that the abuse stopped.
When questioned by the authorities, Mrs. Esther Obidigwe admitted to the crime, while her daughter Ozioma claimed that she reacted violently due to something her father allegedly tried to do to her. Meanwhile, Obuka denied being present during the incident.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hon. Ify Obinabo, expressed her outrage over the situation and promised that justice would be served. The three accused individuals have been handed over to the police for further investigation and will face charges in court.
This incident has sparked outrage and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting the elderly from abuse, even within their own families. The Anambra State Government’s swift action in this case highlights its commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of all citizens, especially the vulnerable.
