By Omoyeni Ojeifo
The Federal Government has warned against continued practice of harmful widowhood traditions in some communities in the country, describing them as violations of human dignity, justice and equity.
Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, gave the warning in a press statement obtained by Persecondnews on Tuesday to commemorate the 2026 International Widows’ Day, themed “Justice, Dignity and Economic Power for Widows.”
The Minister insisted that harmful widowhood practices against women remain unacceptable and contradict modern values of justice, equality and respect for women’s fundamental human rights.
“Harmful widowhood practices, including degrading mourning rites, forced confinement, disinheritance, property grabbing, accusations of complicity in spousal death and forced remarriage, have no place in a modern society,” she said.
According to Sulaiman-Ibrahim, such practices are repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience, stressing that widows should never be subjected to abuse or discrimination after the loss of their spouses.
“Let me be unequivocal: such practices are criminal. The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act prohibits harmful widowhood practices and prescribes penalties of up to two years imprisonment or a fine of up to ₦500,000, or both for offenders.”
She declared that the Federal Government would continue to enforce the law and intensify public awareness to ensure no widow suffers in silence.
“Widowhood should never become a sentence to poverty, exclusion, discrimination or despair.”
The Minister noted that many widows are left without inheritance, economic security, shelter and social protection, while also bearing the responsibility of raising their families alone.
“Globally, an estimated 258 million women are widows, while Nigeria is home to over two million widows.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim added that the realities faced by widows represent a significant development challenge requiring urgent and sustained intervention.
“Widows are not peripheral members of society. They are central to the survival of families, the stability of communities and the continuity of generations.”
The Minister said widows’ resilience should be met with structured support and greater social inclusion.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains firmly committed to protecting vulnerable Nigerians and advancing inclusive development under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated.
She stressed that the government would continue to place women, families and social protection at the centre of national development efforts and called for greater support for widows nationwide.
“I call on traditional institutions, faith leaders, governments at all levels, development partners, civil society and the private sector to intensify efforts to eliminate harmful practices and strengthen legal protection for widows.”
International Widows’ Day, observed annually on June 23, was established by the United Nations to draw global attention to the challenges faced by widows and promote their rights, dignity, inclusion and economic empowerment worldwide.
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