An NGO, the Women and Orphans Rights to Family Assets Foundation (WORFAF) has intervened in a female disinheritance saga involving two sisters, Kelechi and Chinwendu Okorie, of Eluama Uzuakoli in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, endorsing their demand for the immediate vacation of occupants from their late parents’ property.
In a statement issued over the weekend, WORFAF described the case as yet another manifestation of the deep – rooted and unlawful practice of female disinheritance, which continues to deprive women of their constitutionally guaranteed rights to family property, particularly in parts of South-East Nigeria.
The Executive Director of WORFAF, Nwadi Elobuike explained that the Organization was compelled to step in because the alleged actions against the sisters violate settled judicial precedents and fundamental human rights.
“The continued occupation of the late Mr. and Mrs. Okorie’s property by persons who have no legal entitlement, to the exclusion of their biological daughters, is not only unjust but patently unlawful,” Elobuike stated.
“Customary practices that seek to disinherit women have been consistently struck down by superior courts in Nigeria. No tradition, no matter how long – standing, can override the Constitution.”
Elobuike referenced landmark Supreme Court decisions, including Ukeje v. Ukeje and Mojekwu v. Mojekwu which unequivocally affirmed that *female children are entitled to inherit their parents’ estate,* stressing that communities that continue to ignore these rulings are acting in defiance of the law.
According to WORFAF, Kelechi and Chinwendu Okorie, as the surviving children of their late parents, are the lawful heirs to the disputed property and are entitled to peaceful possession without intimidation, obstruction or cultural prejudice.
“WORFAF fully endorses the sisters’ demand for immediate vacation of all illegal occupants from their parents’ property,” Elobuike said.
“We call on community leaders, traditional institutions and relevant authorities in Eluama Uzuakoli to ensure that justice is done without delay.”
The Organisation warned that failure to resolve the matter amicably and lawfully could escalate tensions and further entrench injustice against women, noting that silence or inaction by community authorities often emboldens perpetrators of disinheritance.
WORFAF also appealed to State institutions, including the Abia State Government and human rights bodies, to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting women and orphans from property – related abuses.
“The case is not an isolated incident,” Elobuike added.
“Across Igboland and beyond, countless women are dispossessed simply because of their gender. WORFAF will continue to speak out, intervene and pursue justice until such discriminatory practices are completely eradicated.”
The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advocacy, legal support and public enlightenment aimed at ending female disinheritance and promoting equal rights in line with Nigerian law and international human rights standards. #
