Sholape Seriki, one of the wives of the late Nigerian diplomat Demola Seriki, has publicly appealed for help over her family's estate issues in a series of emotional videos on her Instagram page. The mother of two visited her late husband's grave to report her co-wife, Wosilat Okoya, detailing what she claims to be going through. Social media users have offered prayers and advised her to take the matter to court, while also discussing the challenges associated with polygamy.
Allegations of Court Summons and Fine
Seriki, who passed away in 2022 after battling pancreatic cancer in Madrid, Spain, left behind properties now at the center of a dispute. In her videos, Sholape alleged that she received court documents from Wosilat Okoya regarding a vehicle and other properties belonging to their late husband. According to her, Wosilat is seeking a ₦50 million fine and an apology over matters related to the estate.
“Today, I received a court letter from Wosilat Okoya regarding a vehicle she took, saying I should come and apologise or pay a ₦50 million fine. She wants to take all the properties. She wants to work with judges who will rule in her favour. Demola, these are your properties. Is this how you will watch your children be bullied?” Sholape said in one of the videos.
Claims of Bullying and Lack of School Fees
Sholape further alleged that her children have been bullied at school over their father's estate and that she was not provided with their school fees. She also claimed that after visiting Wosilat, some men allegedly attacked her children, but a tenant intervened and prevented further harm. She stated that she had approached Wosilat to resolve issues amicably concerning her children's inheritance, but instead was taken to court.
“I have remained silent for some time, but my children are being bullied at school over their father’s estate. This is too much for me and my children,” she added.
Social Media Reactions
Many social media users reacted to the videos with sympathy and advice. User @merefitth wrote: “Sis u should have advised him to put some properties in your children's name when he was here. I know someone who did it, immediately her children were born.... now the man passed, the 1st wife grabbed the rest.... polygamy is what it is.”
@bimboly said: “Polygamy is an endless battle.” @itkjeemy wrote: “This life is funny. The owner of the property is gone. There are rules governing inheritance. Let's us remember we will leave this life one day.” @rudyda stated: “I am so emotional watching this. May Allah be with you and those amazing kids. This is heavy.”
@tosinolivs commented: “The annoying part is that these men will never learn from others mistakes. If you are a polygamist put proper arrangement in place that will outlive you.” @prettyyetymama reacted: “Only God can fight for this woman. This is too much for her and the children. Iku ba ola je oooooo.”
Background on Demola Seriki
Demola Seriki was a Nigerian diplomat who served as Ambassador to Spain before his death in 2022. He was survived by multiple wives and children. The estate dispute has brought attention to the complexities of inheritance in polygamous families, where legal battles over properties often arise after the husband's death.
Sholape Seriki’s video has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many calling for a fair resolution and urging the parties involved to seek legal counsel. The matter remains ongoing, and no official statement has been released by Wosilat Okoya at the time of this report.
