The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Rivers State Chapter, has vowed to work towards the abolition of certain harmful traditions and laws affecting young women and men in Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Chairperson of FIDA Rivers, Emi Life-Jim George, made this known during a sensitization campaign held at Kpite Community in Tai LGA. The campaign aimed to educate community members on their fundamental human rights and to challenge discriminatory practices.
Life-Jim George specifically condemned a local tradition that forbids young widows from remarrying after the death of their husbands. She described the practice as a gross violation of natural justice and an infringement on women’s rights.
“It is unjust and inhumane to deny a woman the right to remarry simply because her husband is late. FIDA will continue to advocate for the elimination of such traditions,” she said. She emphasized the constant need for human rights sensitization, noting that when the public are informed it makes them know what to do in any circumstance that may arise.
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“We will work with the traditional institution in Tai to see how this law can be changed so that women can be free. It is also applicable to young men which is not okay in the community. “Former Superintendent of Police, Chief Thaddeus Neebunkoko, who spoke on behalf of the Tai Council and the Gbenemene TuaTua of Tai, His Royal Highness King Samuel Nne, expressed appreciation to FIDA for the awareness campaign.
He assured that the Council would collaborate with FIDA to review and abolish such laws. “We are grateful for the enlightenment brought to us today. The Council is ready to partner with FIDA to ensure harmful traditions are put to an end.
On her part, the Women Leader of the community, Chief Mrs. Ledorsi Stephen, lamented the unfair treatment some women face in marriages. “There are men who, without any quarrel or reason, marry another wife and ask their first wife to leave. This is unacceptable. I will make sure the knowledge I’ve gained today is shared with other women in our community,” she stated.
FIDA Rivers reaffirmed its commitment to continue advocacy across local communities to promote justice, gender equality, and respect for human rights. The FIDA Chairperson however handed some copies of booklet containing Rivers State Bye laws to the King representative
One Response
If young widows are encouraged to marry immediately their husband’s are no more, they may abandon the children or care less for them because of love.