Sango Otta, Ogun State – In a heart-wrenching appeal for justice, Mrs. Sekinah. T. Lawal, former chairperson of the Association of Women Journalists in Lagos, has petitioned the police over a troubling threat to her life and property.
Her ordeal began shortly after the death of her husband six months ago, leading to a distressing struggle over the property.
In a letter detailing her plight, Mrs. Lawal explained that since her husband’s passing, she has faced increasingly aggressive claims on the property located in the Iloye area of Sango Otta. “My husband bought this land over 20 years ago,” she shared, her voice trembling with emotion. “It’s not just land; it’s a part of our family legacy, and now I feel like I’m being bullied out of it.”
The situation escalated dramatically, according to Mrs. Lawal. “When they found out about his death, people who had no right to the land suddenly appeared, trying to claim ownership. It’s been incredibly shocking and painful,” she added, revealing that the claims are spearheaded by a former worker at the site who had persistently pressured her husband to sell a portion of the plot, only to be met with rejection.
“Immediately after my husband’s death, we began receiving suspicious land receipts from various sources,” Mrs. Lawal said. “It felt like a twisted game, a way to confuse and intimidate me.”
On March 14, 2025, Mrs. Lawal’s fears escalated when two of her workers, including her elderly uncle, were arrested and taken to Sango Police Station under unclear circumstances. “I was absolutely devastated,” she recalled. “How can anyone feel safe when the very people who should be protecting us are involved in this chaos?”
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In her petition, Mrs. Lawal is urging local authorities to take action against what she describes as a blatant attack on her rights and safety. “I’m asking for appropriate action to be taken,” she implored. “I cannot fight this battle alone. I just want to be able to live in peace and protect what is rightfully ours.”
As she navigates this difficult situation, Mrs. Lawal’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the struggles that can arise after loss, and the complexities of property ownership in times of grief. She remains hopeful for a swift resolution, emphasizing her need for security. “This land is part of my family’s history,” she said. “I will not let it be taken away from me without a fight.”
Her call for help resonates not only as a plea for personal justice but also as a broader advocacy for the rights of women in vulnerable positions, reminding all of us of the crucial need for a fair and just legal system.