Emmanuel Thomas l Monday, October 30, 2017
EBUTE METTA, Lagos – A group of women, The Women Arise and CEE Hope today staged a rally at Ebute Metta Magistrate Court, seeking justice for Lawrence Idoko, who was stabbed to death by his wife.
His 22- Year Old wife, Folashade Idoko allegedly stabbed him to death at their residence No. 20 Kosoko street, Ayetoro area of Lagos State, on August 20, 2017. Lawrence, a pipeline engineer was allegedly killed in feat of rage, when his wife uncovered short text messages in his phone believing it emanated from the late husband’s lover.
His wife, a full-time house wife and mother of two was arrested by the Lagos state police command and charged to court. She pleaded guilty to one count charge of murder. We gathered that the woman was known for her violent behaviour in the area.
Meanwhile, Magistrate K. A Ariyo has adjourned to December 4, 2017 to allow the legal advices from the Lagos State Department of public prosecution while the accused remains in prison custody.
President of Women Arise Dr. Joe Okei Odumakin, the leader of the campaign said there is need to project the voices of men who are victims of domestic violence, this is to call an end to it, for victims to shun the culture of silence and tradition-induced stigma, speak up and escape harm before it is too late.
Odukamin said for men experiencing domestic violence, violence against men in matrimonial setup is on the increase and we must end this menace he said. Also speaking, founder of CEE-HOPE, a girl’s right NGO, Betty Abah said, all we believe is injustice to one is injustice to all, we have no doubt that injustice will be served in this case again she said.
Betty said domestic violence is gender blind, men and women can be victims, nobody is too big or small for violence, victims are to be cared for both male and female and appropriate measures should be taken to handle the situations. Men and women are equal victims ofdomestic violence she said.
