By Kamsi Anayo
The Speaker, Anambra Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, has called for the abrogation of abhorrent laws against widowhood in the state.
Udeze made the disclosure while
felicitating with widows in the state who recently joined their counterparts all over the world to mark this year’s International Widowhood.
He urged legislative institutions in the country to accord widows the necessary protection and support through legislations.
According to him, the law enacted by the state legislature to prohibit widowhood malpractices in the state is still in force.
The Speaker enjoined traditional rulers in the state to abrogate obnoxious and harmful laws as well as other related practices against widows in their domains.
“Widows should be allowed to coexist with others without hindrances,” he said.
He called on the affluent citizens to contribute to the upkeep and general well being of widows in their midst by instituting various empowerment programmes to make their condition better.
Udeze commended the wife of the state governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for the efforts to ensure that the status and welfare of widows in state are enhanced.
He encouraged the widows to remain focused and have full trust in God, who is capable of changing their situations for the better.