The Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) given N20, 000 cash benefit each to 1000 widows across the state in commemoration of the 2021 International Widow’s Day.
The International Widows Day, marked every June 23, is dedicated to women who suffer exploitation, deprivation, persecution as a result of their husbands’ demise.
Speaking during the event held at Alausa, Ikeja, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Wife of the State Governor, reiterated the state government zero-tolerance to all forms of violence against women, most especially widows.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs Abimbola Idowu, wife of Ojo Local Government Chairman, noted that various forms of abuse on widows and their children was one of the major violation of human right.
“This day is set aside to focus on effective actions and advocacy on widows’ plight as well as their children around the world, who suffer from poverty, illiteracy, HIV/AIDS, conflict and socio-economic injustice.
“All the various forms of abuse on widows and their children constitute one of the most serious violations of human rights and obstacles towards development.
“From being subjected to gruesome funeral rites such as forced ‘purification’ through sexual violence, rape, being bequeathed to male relatives of their deceased husbands and many more are exerted inhumane treatment endured by widows.
“Today, as we celebrate Widows’ day, I want to reiterate Lagos zero-tolerance to all forms of violence against women and remind everyone that the Sanwo-Olu’s administration will not relent on its efforts to protect the right of all categories of womenfolks, including the widows. ” Several measures are in place to ensure the protection of women