Widows Pains: WAPA Advocates Support For Victims Rights

The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has called for respect for widows’ rights which is been eroded by harmful traditional practices, adding that it’s an abuse of the fundamental rights of women.

The call was contained in a statement released by the Permanent Secretary of WAPA, Mrs. Oluyemi Kalesanwo to raise awareness about the challenges faced by widows worldwide as well as acknowledge the resilience and strength of widows in surviving their predicament.

She said, ”The Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation stands in solidarity with widows all over the world, hence, we acknowledge the unique struggles faced by widows, including social isolation, discrimination and economic hardship”.

While recounting gruesome activities requiring change across the metropolis, Kalesanwo reiterated that widows are often subjected to harmful traditional practices, such as forced marriages and depriving them of inheritance, which violate their human rights and perpetuate gender inequality. These practices can also expose them to health risks, such as HIV and other sexually transmitted infections”.

She explained that the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Poverty Alleviation was committed to promoting the rights of widows, protecting them from violence and abuse, and providing them with the support they need to live fulfilling lives.

The Permanent Secretary averred “We encourage all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, faith-based groups, and the private sector, to join us in this effort. Let’s give widows around us a helping hand”.