The Benue State House of Assembly has passed a bill seeking to establish the Benue State Widows Commission, a landmark move aimed at protecting widows across the state from harmful traditional practices, discrimination, and economic deprivation.
The bill, which was considered and approved during plenary, is designed to provide a legal and institutional framework for safeguarding the rights and welfare of widows. Lawmakers noted that many widows in Benue State continue to face inhumane treatment, including disinheritance, forced rituals, social exclusion, and economic marginalisation, often following the death of their spouses.
According to the Assembly, the proposed commission will be responsible for advocating widows’ rights, offering legal support, coordinating welfare and empowerment programmes, and working with relevant agencies to ensure the enforcement of laws that protect widows from abuse and exploitation. The commission is also expected to engage in public enlightenment campaigns to discourage harmful cultural practices and promote dignity and equality for widows.
Members of the House described the passage of the bill as a significant step towards social justice and inclusive governance, stressing that the state has a moral obligation to protect vulnerable groups. They expressed confidence that the commission, when fully operational, would improve the living conditions of widows and give them a stronger voice in society.
The bill will now be transmitted to the executive arm for assent by the Governor of Benue State, after which the commission can be formally established and begin operations.
