Beyond Legal Aid: A Mother’S fight for Justice

In January 2024, Mrs AL’s life changed overnight.  With no support and nowhere to turn, she needed urgent help to protect herself and her children.  She and her two young children, aged four (4) and two (2), were forced out of their Abuja home after years of abuse.

Her husband told her his family had found him a “better wife.”  Soon after, he drove her out with nothing.  She had no belongings, no money and no safe place to go.

That night, she and her children slept in a government hospital in Karshi.  It was their only refuge. 

In February 2024, Mrs AL moved to her mother’s home.  However, the situation did not improve.  Her husband stopped providing financial support for the children.  He spread false accusations about her and refused to return her personal belongings unless she refunded his bride price.  As a result, she felt trapped and powerless. 

At that point, she reached out to AWJAI.

We acted immediately.  First, we provided legal aid and assigned a lawyer to her case. At her request, our legal team proceeded to file divorce proceedings, helping her take an important step towards rebuilding her life with dignity and stability.   At the same time, we supported her in filing a formal petition with the FCT Police Command to recover her belongings and address the threats she faced.  

As a result of this intervention, Mrs AL regained possession of her property.  In addition, her lawyer diligently pursued the divorce case.  Consequently, the divorce case was finalised by the court on March 26, 2025.   

Today, she is rebuilding her life with strength and dignity. 

Her journey reflects the strength of many women who endure in silence.  More importantly, it shows that with the right support, survivors can rebuild, recover and reclaim their future.

Watch Mrs AL testimony in the video below.