Edo First Lady Supports Domestic Violence Survivor, Leads Cancer Awareness Walk
By Osehobo Ofure, Benin
The Edo State Government has presented a cheque of ₦5 million to Uyi Tina, a survivor of domestic violence, through the Office of the First Lady at the Government House, Benin City.
Mrs. Uyi, upon returning from Europe on December 31, 2024, was set ablaze by her estranged husband, Osaro Awughan, while inside her apartment.
The attack caused her to lose all she had gathered over the years and left her hospitalized.
In tears upon receiving the cheque, she expressed her gratitude to the Office of the First Lady and the Edo State Government, saying, “Thank you so much, ma. God bless you, ma. God bless Governor Okpebholo.”
Presenting the cheque, the Administrator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, recalled the Biblical story of Job, who initially lost everything but eventually recovered all.
“Once there is life, there is hope. We are grateful that life was not taken from you. I know that the law will take its course. You are a daughter of our state, and what affects you affects us,” Mrs. Anani stated.
She further reassured Uyi Tina of government’s continued support, saying, “We may not have everything to give you, but the support we have, we will give to you. The Governor sends his best regards and wishes you a speedy recovery. He said we should tell you not to give up.”
In a related story, Mrs. Anani, has led a cancer awareness walk tagged ‘Walk Against Cancer ‘ to raise awareness about the disease and promote early detection.
The walk brought together participants from Government officials, healthcare professionals, amongst others, with Mrs. Anani, noting that cancer remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, and that regular check-ups and early detection are key to saving lives.
“It is the walk against cancer, to educate people that cancer is preventable. It is no more a death sentence. Today we are here to create awareness to let people know that one can actually get healed and get well from cancer. ”
The cancer awareness walk was part of the series of activities lined up to commemorate World Cancer Day, celebrated globally on February 4.
