By Ogochukwu Mokwugwo
The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Anambra State Chapter, has called for enhanced protection of widows’ rights and greater economic empowerment opportunities to help widows live with dignity, independence and security.
The State Chairperson of FIDA, Barr. Amara Muojeke, made the appeal in a statement marking the 2026 International Widows’ Day, observed annually on June 23, encouraging widows in Anambra State and across Nigeria to seek justice whenever their rights are violated rather than endure abuse or discrimination in silence.
She noted that FIDA offers free legal services to support widows and other vulnerable persons in accessing justice. According to her, International Widows’ Day provides an important platform for raising awareness about the challenges faced by millions of widows worldwide, promoting actions aimed at safeguarding their welfare and fundamental rights.
She observed that the 2026 theme, “Justice, Dignity and Economic Empowerment of Widows,” resonates strongly in Nigeria and Anambra State, where many widows still face harmful traditional practices, disinheritance, property seizure and other forms of discrimination.
Muojeke stressed that widows deserve respect, fairness and equal protection under the law, noting that Section 34 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees the dignity of every human person.
She highlighted legal protections available in Anambra State, including the Malpractices Against Widows and Widowers (Prohibition) Law of 2005 and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law of 2017, both of which prohibit harmful widowhood practices, prescribing sanctions for offenders.
Emphasizing the importance of financial independence, the FIDA chairperson described economic empowerment as a vital tool for reducing the vulnerability of widows, enabling them to provide for their families.
“Economically empowered widows are better positioned to protect their rights, care for their children and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities,” she said.
Muojeke called on government agencies, traditional rulers, civil society organisations and community leaders to intensify efforts toward protecting widows from abuse, ensuring the effective implementation of laws designed to safeguard their welfare.
She reaffirmed FIDA’s commitment to promoting, defending the rights of widows and other vulnerable groups through legal assistance, advocacy and public enlightenment programmes across Anambra State.
Ogochukwu Mokwugwo is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
