TLC seeks end to harmful traditional practices against widows

The maiden edition of the International Widows Day Conference, organised by Total Life Concern (TLC), in collaboration with the Lagos State branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria, commemorated the 2024 International Widows Day.

A lawyer and convener of the initiative, Edirin Essiet, said: “We are here to affirm that the law is on their side. There are legal protections in place to defend and support widows, and it is our duty to make these protections known and accessible.”

Essiet highlighted the challenges faced by widows, including harmful traditional practices that threaten their dignity and disinheritance from their husbands’ property.

She praised FIDA’s unwavering support and re-affirmed the non-governmental organisations’ (NGOs) commitment to empowering widows through legal assistance.

Essiet, therefore, called for an end to the injustices faced by many widows and ensuring their rights are respected and upheld.

The conference, with the theme, “Widows Right,” aims to create legal awareness and empower widows against these practices. Over 150 widows attended the conference, which featured a medical outreach and legal assistance.

Also, Chairperson of FIDA, Lagos branch, Chinwe Efobi, emphasised the need to address the issues faced by widows, stating: “Achieving gender equality for widows requires a comprehensive approach that addresses legal, economic, social, and health-related barriers.”

The conference aligns with the United Nations’ International Widows Day, which seeks to create awareness and eradicate poverty and injustice faced by millions of widows and their dependents worldwide.