A fresh development has emerged in the Ikorodu widow property dispute after Livinus Nwosu challenged the account shared online by activist Harrison Gwamnishu, presenting a different version of events surrounding the death of a man and the disagreement involving his widow and father-in-law.
The controversy began after Gwamnishu shared a video alleging that a 28-year-old widow, identified as Tosin, was locked out of her matrimonial home by her late husband’s family shortly after his death.
Also read: Widow, 28, locked out by father-in-law eight days after husband’s death
The activist alleged that the widow’s father-in-law attempted to take control of the deceased’s property and prevented her from accessing the home at No. 8 Jumofak, Igbo Oluwo Estate, Koya Adeniran, Ikorodu, Lagos.
The post attracted widespread attention online and prompted intervention from the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), which confirmed that it had contacted the widow and that the matter had been reported to the police.
According to the agency, the widow alleged threats to her life, physical assault and intimidation following her husband’s death. The DSVA added that the alleged perpetrator had been arrested while investigations continued.
However, in a new video, Livinus Nwosu disputed the claims that circulated online, alleging that the story presented by Gwamnishu did not reflect the full circumstances surrounding the family dispute.
Nwosu claimed that the video showing the father-in-law locking the gate was recorded in 2024 and was not connected to an attempt to take over the deceased’s property after his death.
He also alleged that the late husband had returned to his family home about two months before his death after his health improved.
According to Nwosu, it was during that period that the widow suggested that they formalise their relationship through a court marriage.
Nwosu claimed the couple proceeded with the court marriage but that the man died about two months later.
He further alleged that the deceased’s father was the person caring for his son during a period of serious illness, contradicting claims that the family had abandoned the man before his death.
“The woman that Harrison Gwamnishu posted that her father-in-law wants to take over her husband’s properties is false and not true,” Nwosu said.
Nwosu also alleged that the widow abandoned her husband during his illness, travelled frequently and was not responsible for his care. Those claims have not been independently verified.
The dispute has continued to attract public attention, with many Nigerians debating issues surrounding inheritance rights, widow protection and family responsibilities after the death of a spouse.
Legal experts and social commentators have repeatedly warned that disputes involving the estates of deceased persons should be resolved through recognised legal processes rather than public accusations or actions outside the law.
The Lagos DSVA has not issued a fresh statement responding to Nwosu’s allegations, and Harrison Gwamnishu has not publicly addressed the new claims at the time of publication.
Also read: Widow, 28, locked out by father-in-law eight days after husband’s death
As investigations continue, the conflicting accounts highlight the importance of allowing relevant authorities to establish the facts while protecting the rights and dignity of all parties involved.
See video below:
Maryam Idris is a reporter and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
