Benue Family Refuses Coffin Provided by Son-in-Law for Burial of Mother-in-Law, Citing Unsatisfactory Appearance

On Thursday, March 30, 2023, a family in Tombo Mbatie, Buruku local government area of Benue State rejected a coffin provided by their son-in-law for the burial of his mother-in-law. Bem Raphael Aondongu shared the story on Facebook, noting that according to TIV tradition, the first female child who is married is responsible for providing a casket for the burial of either parent. Despite the son-in-law’s best efforts, the family deemed the casket “too poor” and “not beautiful” enough to bury a member of their family. They proceeded to turn the casket upside down in protest. This incident has sparked debate among social media users, with many questioning the family’s decision.