Nigerian widows often face the harsh reality of societal neglect, poverty, and maltreatment at the hands of their late husbands’ families. BABATUNDE TITILOLA writes about their daily struggles and determination to stay afloat despite the country’s biting economic conditions. On the morning of May 7, 2024, in the heart of a small Molatori community, situated between the Ibu River and Eruwuru stream, our correspondent observed a remarkable scene.
This community is located between Lagos State and Ibadan City, within the Shagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State. There, a 50-year-old widow, Madam Bola Adeyemi stood out. Despite facing many challenges in life, Bola has shown unwavering strength and resilience.
Adeyemi’s husband’s passing a year ago left a void in her heart, but she carried on, determined to make ends meet for herself and her remaining family. Every morning, she sets up a humble stall in front of her modest rented home, cooks beans, and hopes to make enough sales to survive the day. That morning around 10 am, her already tired face bore the marks of a life filled with hardship and struggle.
The lines etched on her face told a story of loss and perseverance, of sacrifice and survival. Despite the weariness that weighs heavy on her shoulders, she was still willing to accommodate our correspondent for some story time. The rural environment that surrounded her is a stark contrast to the bustling city life that so many are accustomed to.
Here, time moved at a .
