A woman from Enugu State, Gertrude Ngwu, has received an outpouring of support from Nigerians after a video showing her emotional reaction during her husband’s Ozo chieftaincy ceremony went viral on social media.
Gertrude, also known as Mama Ukehe and Wetelu Chukwu Obi, attracted widespread sympathy after footage from the traditional ceremony showed other women and their children receiving cash, wrappers and gifts while she appeared to be left out.
The woman, who is her husband’s first wife and has no biological child, was eventually handed some wrappers but reportedly broke down in tears.
In the viral footage, she expressed the pain of years of alleged mockery and disrespect over her inability to have a child.
The video triggered conversations across Nigeria about the treatment of women experiencing childlessness, with many condemning the practice of measuring a woman’s worth by her ability to give birth.
Following the widespread attention, well-wishers began sending Gertrude financial assistance, clothing, wrappers, phones and other gifts.
Reports also indicated that the donations had reached millions of naira, although the exact amount raised has not been independently established.
On Friday, November 6, 2026, supporters reportedly gathered at her residence in Enugu for a celebration in her honour.
The gathering featured music, dancing, a live band and the presentation of additional gifts as people continued to show their support.
Some supporters affectionately referred to her as “Mother of the Nation” and “Mama Uwa”, while others reportedly offered symbolic adoption and discussed plans to provide her with a house.
Representatives linked to the office of the Enugu State First Lady were also said to have shown support for her.
Meanwhile, Gertrude’s husband has offered a different account of the circumstances surrounding their marriage.
He reportedly claimed that Gertrude refused to have children and denied that he or his second wife subjected her to mockery.
Gertrude, however, has given a different version of events, saying the couple initially enjoyed a happy marriage before things changed when her husband allegedly married another woman without informing her.
She also claimed that he stopped taking fertility medication they had previously been using.
The conflicting accounts have added another dimension to the story, although the circumstances surrounding their fertility challenges and marital disagreements have not been independently established.
Beyond the donations and public celebration, Gertrude’s experience has renewed discussions about the stigma faced by women who do not have biological children.
The response from Nigerians has also highlighted the importance of treating women with dignity and respect, regardless of their reproductive circumstances. A woman’s value should not be determined by whether she has children.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
