Benue Assembly passes bill to establish widows commission, end abusive traditions

The Benue State House of Assembly has endorsed a new legislation establishing the Benue State Widows Commission, aimed at eliminating degrading cultural practices targeted at widows and shielding them from exploitation.

The bill, officially titled “A law to establish the Benue State Widows Commission and for Related Purposes, 2025,” was passed on Tuesday during plenary in Makurdi.

During deliberations, Beckie Orpin, who chairs the Committee on Women Affairs and Social Welfare, stressed that the bill was crucial in addressing long-standing injustices faced by widows, whom she identified as one of the most vulnerable demographics.

She noted that the assembly’s approval reflects its dedication to safeguarding disadvantaged groups.

Following the debate, Majority Leader Thomas Dugeri moved the motion adopting the committee’s report, recommendations and the full provisions of the bill.

Afterward, Speaker Alfred Emberga instructed the Clerk, Bem Mela, to conduct the third reading, which concluded the legislative process and led to the bill’s passage.