Grace Joseph, widow of commercial bus driver Joseph Okpe, has appealed for assistance, alleging that her family has been left without support following the death of her husband after an alleged assault involving personnel of the Nigerian Air Force along the Oshodi–Apapa Expressway in Lagos.
According to the widow, officials of the Air Force visited her family shortly after the incident, expressed condolences and assured them of support. However, she claimed that no further communication or assistance has been received since that visit.
The Nigerian Air Force had earlier confirmed that personnel linked to the incident were taken into custody and that investigations were ongoing. The military also stated that it had reached out to the deceased’s family to offer sympathy during the difficult period.
Speaking about her family’s situation, Grace said her late husband was the sole provider for the household and that his death had left her struggling to care for their three children.
She disclosed that Air Force representatives provided N200,000 during their condolence visit to assist with immediate needs, but said that no additional support had followed.
The grieving widow expressed concern about the future of her children, noting that they continue to ask about their father and are finding it difficult to cope with the loss.
She appealed to the government and relevant authorities to assist with the children’s education and welfare, stressing that her husband had been responsible for meeting all their needs before his death.
Recalling the events surrounding the tragedy, she said she received a phone call informing her that her husband had been involved in an incident and was receiving treatment at a hospital. She immediately contacted family members and attempted to reach the facility.
According to her, transportation challenges and the late hour delayed their arrival. While communicating with medical personnel, she received another call informing her that her husband had passed away.
The widow described the experience as devastating and unexpected, saying the loss has left a deep emotional and financial impact on the family.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing as authorities continue efforts to determine the facts of the case.
