Somtochukwu Udeze, a Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, urged lawmakers across the country to enact stricter and more comprehensive legislation to protect widows. His advocacy recognises the vulnerability of widows in the country. The Speaker emphasized the need for stronger legal measures to safeguard their rights and ensure their well-being.
The call for robust legislation aims to provide widows with enhanced support. As well as protection within the legal framework, addressing the unique challenges they may face. Udeze also urged traditional institutions in the nation to safeguard and help widows in their various communities.
While congratulating widows in the state on this year’s International Widow’s Day, the speaker urged traditional authorities in the state to repeal all odious and barbarous laws, as well as other related practices against widows.
He stated that widows should be permitted to cohabit freely with other community members. He reiterated that legislation adopted by the state assembly to outlaw barbaric widowhood practices is still in effect, and he warned violators to stop mistreating widows.
“Widows should be allowed to co-exist with others without hindrances. I also appealed to affluent citizens to contribute to the upkeep and general well-being of widows in their midst by instituting various empowerment programmes for them to better their conditions,” Udeze elaborated.
cc: Punch Ng
