Abia First Lady Condemns Harmful Widowhood Practices, Vows to Protect Widows' Rights and Dignity | WATCH VIDEO

... Mrs Priscilla Otti Reaffirms Government's Commitment to Empowering Vulnerable Women in Abia State

[caption id="attachment_191058" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu[/caption]

In a bold and heartfelt declaration during the 2025 International Widows Day celebration, the Wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, ably represented by the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu, issued a strong statement against harmful widowhood practices, while reaffirming the administration's unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of widows in the state.

Speaking during the emotional ceremony held at the JAAC Building, Secretariat Road, Umuahia, Mrs. Emetu drew inspiration from this year's global theme: "Beyond Grief: Rebuilding Lives, Strengthening Communities and Challenging Stigma.ÔÇØ

She described the plight of widows as a reflection of deep-rooted social and economic inequalities, emphasizing the need for more action to equip widows with the tools for financial empowerment, social protection, and psychological support.

"Despite the challenges widows face, they can become shining lights in their communities if their potential is properly harnessed. We will continue to support them through government-backed initiatives,ÔÇØ she said.

Mrs. Emetu, standing in for the Governor's wife, condemned in strong terms the persistent cultural and legal discrimination against widows, especially the denial of inheritance rights, vowing that the office of the First Lady will remain open and responsive to the defense of widowhood rights in Abia.

"I have consistently condemned harmful widowhood practices. My office is dedicated to ensuring widows are protected and supported,ÔÇØ she declared.

The high-profile event was organized by the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, in partnership with the Office of the First Lady, to highlight the unique struggles faced by widows, while promoting public awareness and policy action.

In her keynote address, Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, described the event as a crucial platform to confront the silent suffering of widows, noting that the ministry was established on August 15, 2024, by Governor Alex Otti to target the poorest and most vulnerable groups, especially widows, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.

[caption id="attachment_191057" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix[/caption]

"Widows are often subjected to social stigma, economic deprivation, and psychological trauma. This day reminds us of our responsibility to confront and change this reality,ÔÇØ she stated.

Dr. Felix praised Mrs. Otti for her consistent humanitarian efforts and unwavering support in uplifting the lives of widows and vulnerable women across Abia State.

One of the highlights of the event was a lecture by Mrs. Patience Ngozi Udonsi, a widow for over 22 years and retired civil servant, who called on fellow widows to remain strong and refuse to be defined by societal rejection. She commended the governor and his wife for making widows feel recognized and respected.

The event also featured free medical check-ups, dance presentations by widows, and the distribution of cash gifts to attendees.

Other dignitaries present included Barr. Nneka Obike, representing the Commissioner of Justice; Benson Ojeikere, Head of Abia Civil Service; wives of local government chairmen, and community leaders.

[caption id="attachment_191059" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu and Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Dr. Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix[/caption]

As Abia marks this solemn day with strong words and concrete action, widows across the state are beginning to feel seen, supported, and empowered - a testament to the Otti administration's commitment to social justice and inclusive governance. WATCH VIDEO BELOW:

https://youtu.be/LjM9A9H6wAA