Women Protest in Anambra Over Murder of Blessing Nwaka by Husband
Women from across the 179 communities of Anambra State organized a peaceful demonstration on Thursday to mourn the tragic death of Mrs. Blessing Nwaka, who was burned alive by her husband, Obiozor, in Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area. The protestors marched to the office of the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Dora Akunyili, at the Women Development Centre in Awka, chanting songs to express their outrage and demand justice.
The demonstration included women from various associations, including the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU). The victim, Mrs. Nwaka, died on Wednesday at a nearby hospital due to the severe burns she sustained when her husband allegedly set her on fire over accusations of infidelity. The protestors expressed deep dismay and called for an end to violence against women.
Mrs. Ify Okaro, the National President of the ASATU Women Wing, led the protest, urging men to treat their wives with care, respect, and love, and to avoid resorting to violence. Mrs. Josine Unachukwu, representing the Women Leaders of communities, made an emphatic statement, warning that any man who kills his spouse in the state will face severe consequences, including having their house razed down by the community.
Responding to the protestors’ concerns, the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, assured them that the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, is fully committed to ensuring that justice is served in the case. She urged men to report any issues with their wives to the ministry rather than resorting to violence.
The demonstrators were visibly angry as they chanted slogans such as “Marriage is not a do or die affair,” “Anujuo must go,” and “Stop killing women.” The protest served as a call to action against domestic violence and a plea for justice for Blessing Nwaka.
