Fresh controversy has erupted in the family of late Anambra-based journalist, Mr. Alphonsus Nweze, following allegations by his widow that two of his younger brothers sold his land for N12 million just three days after his burial, without informing her or their children.
Nweze, a respected reporter who covered Anambra State while residing in Asaba, died in early October in a motor accident on his way home from work in Onitsha. The Nsukka-born journalist was laid to rest about two weeks ago in his hometown amid widespread grief from colleagues, friends and relatives.
On Saturday, members of the Correspondents’ Chapel, Anambra State, visited the family’s Asaba residence to commiserate with his widow, Mrs. Chioma Alphonsus Eze, and their four children. The delegation, led by the Chapel Chairman, Chief Chuks Ilozue, presented a cheque of N600,000, a support fund raised by journalists and well-meaning individuals.
However, in the course of the visit, the widow broke down in tears as she disclosed that her husband’s siblings allegedly moved swiftly to dispose of his land while the family was still mourning.
“I beg you people to always pray for us,” she said amid sobs. “Three days after my husband’s burial, two of his younger brothers went and sold Alphonsus’ land for N12 million. They didn’t consult me or my children.”
She explained that her late husband had recovered the land from encroachers and had repeatedly resisted pressure from relatives to sell it.
“My husband refused to sell that land because he wanted something secured for the children. Now after his burial, they went and sold it. I learnt they asked for the account number of someone my husband trained in school, saying they would pay my husband’s supposed share to him to bring to us. I told them I’m not interested,” she said.
Visibly distressed, she added that any attempt to involve her in such a transaction so soon after her husband’s death was unacceptable.
“I can’t be selling land and collecting proceeds just after burying my husband. They should keep our own portion of the land for us. We will not sell,” she insisted.
Earlier, Chief Ilozue encouraged the widow to remain strong during the difficult transition and assured her of the continued support of journalists in the state.
“We know you have entered a new phase of life. In reaching out to you, we contacted friends of your husband and other well-wishers who contributed to this support fund,” he said.
He noted that several prominent individuals, including Senator Victor Umeh, Mr. Christian Aburime (Press Secretary to the Anambra State Governor), and SP Tochukwu Ikenga (Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Command), also donated toward supporting the widow.
The Chapel reaffirmed its commitment to stand by the family as they navigate life without their breadwinner.