Outrage in Bayelsa as Vigilante Chains 71-Year-Old Widow to Pole Over False Allegations

There was public outrage over a disturbing incident in Bayelsa State after a 71-year-old widow, Madam Sudinah Andrew, was chained to a pole at the Market Square in Korokorosei Community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, by members of a local vigilante group. The incident occurred on January 28, 2025, and a video of the shocking act went viral over the weekend. The woman was accused of brandishing a cutlass during a verbal dispute with her daughter, though it was later revealed that the allegations were false.

According to reports, the vigilante group had a personal vendetta against Madam Andrew, as she had previously caused their arrest over an alleged harassment incident. A brother of the widow, Mr. Thankgod Andrew, spoke out about the event, confirming that his sister was dragged through the community and chained to a pole for over 24 hours, from January 28 to 29, 2025. He also mentioned that the vigilante group demanded a fine of N50,000 or 55 strokes of cane for her release.

The outcry led to an intervention by the widow’s relatives and several non-governmental organizations, prompting the State Police Command to step in. Madam Andrew was eventually freed and taken to the emergency unit of the Government House clinic in Yenagoa, the state capital. Speaking from her hospital bed, Madam Andrew explained that she had been holding the cutlass to prepare plantain in the bush and had no intention of harming anyone. She claimed that despite her reassurances, the community members insisted she had committed an offense.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation. The End Violence Against Women and Children (EVAWC) organization, led by Tina Tari Youdubagha, called the vigilante group’s actions “barbaric” and a severe violation of the widow’s rights. EVAWC has urged the Bayelsa State Police Command to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure justice is served.

Dr. Dise Harry, founder of the Do Foundation, also voiced his concern, condemning the vigilante’s behavior and calling it a reflection of man’s inhumanity to man. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and demanded that the perpetrators face appropriate consequences. His organization has officially written to the Bayelsa Non-Governmental Forum (BANGOF) to support efforts to ensure justice in the case.