Women from across the 179 communities of Anambra State gathered on Thursday for a peaceful protest to mourn the tragic death of Mrs. Blessing Nwaka, who was burnt alive by her husband in Abagana, Njikoka Local Government Area.
The demonstrators 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 over the brutal act. The women came from various associations, including the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU).
Mrs. Nwaka’s death occurred after her husband, identified as Obiozor, allegedly set her on fire due to suspicions of infidelity. She succumbed to her injuries on Wednesday after being rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Mrs. Ify Okaro, National President of ASATU Women Wing, who led the protest, urged men to treat their wives with care and respect, emphasizing that violence should never be a solution in relationships.
In a show of solidarity, Mrs. Josine Unachukwu, representing the Women Leaders of communities, issued a stern warning: she vowed that any man found guilty of killing his spouse would face severe consequences, including the destruction of his property.
Responding to the protest, the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, assured the women that the state government, led by the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, would ensure that justice was served. She called on men to seek support from the ministry instead of resorting to violence.
The women, visibly angered by the incident, chanted slogans such as “Marriage is not a do-or-die affair,” “Anujuo must go,” and “Stop killing women,” as they continued their protest, demanding justice for Mrs. Nwaka.
