“If You See Husband, By All Means Remarry” – Lawyer Who Was Widowed at 38, Remarried at 45 with 6 Children, Advises Widows

A Nigerian lawyer and Director of the Akwa Ibom State Government Gender-Based Violence Response Department, Ministry of Justice, Emem Ette, has shared her personal story in support of a young widow facing criticism for expressing her desire to remarry. Ette revealed that she became a widow at the age of 38 and later remarried at 45, bringing her six children into a new chapter of life.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, April 17, 2025, Mrs. Ette responded to a conversation in a women’s group where some members were criticizing a young widow who asked if it was appropriate to remarry. Ette strongly disagreed with the backlash, encouraging widows to follow their hearts and not allow societal pressure to dictate their choices.

“My dear young widow, if you see husband, by all means remarry o!” she wrote. “I was widowed at 38. I remarried at 45 with my 6 children! I have a beautiful marriage and the best of husbands. One God has used to console, comfort and to hold me. (That hold eh! Very important!)”

She emphasized the importance of personal choice and noted that while choosing to stay unmarried is also valid, widows should not be shamed for seeking companionship again. She concluded by praising her current husband and encouraging others to support widows in finding happiness again.