From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
Widows in Enugu State will not forget the 2024 Yuletide in a hurry. A not-for- profit organisation, Women and Children Action Charity Association (WACCA), brought smiles to their faces through gifts and empowerment while also renewing calls for an end to harmful widowhood practices in the state and the South East.
The beneficiaries received Christmas gifts, including rice, beans, cash and clothing materials.
But, most importantly, founder and chief executive officer of the foundation, Maudline Nwakuche, pushed for reforms to protect widows in society.
“What led me into doing this was an experience I had several years ago when a woman was badly treated and ostracised by her husband’s people who had accused her of being responsible for her husband’s death.
“I’m still pained by what I witnessed then. So, I decided to start helping widows with the little God has blessed me with the same way we helped that woman then,” Nwakuche said.
She noted that harmful widowhood practices had actually declined unlike in the ‘80s, but said that there were still prevalent in some rural communities in the South East.
Continuing, she noted: “There have been some reforms, especially with the custom of taking over someone’s wife when the person dies, but it is no longer as before.
“I advise the government to make laws to protect widows from these bad and harmful practices. They should make laws to protect them.”
Former National Auditor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ray Nnaji, emphasised the need for structured intervention and sensitisation.
Nnaji stated that the government should be in the driver’s seat in this regard.
“I advise the government to give grants that will ensure these people are taken care of. However, the problem is that, often, such resources don’t get to the people they are meant for.
“I don’t think there is enough sensitisation. No matter the kind of laws and regulations in place, people still indulge in harmful widowhood practices.
“It is the duty of the government to sensitize and enlighten people to stop. Sanctions should be meted out to offenders so others will learn. This kind of situation should not be treated with kid gloves,” the activist legal practitioner said.
To Dr. Christine Odita, the support she received from WACCA over the years has been life-changing. Sharing her personal story, she revealed how the organization stepped in during her darkest moments.
“It’s been nine years since I lost my husband. We were victims of an accident, and due to its effects, my husband had nerve damage that left him unable to walk, while I suffered injuries that led to both my legs being amputated. It was discovered I was diabetic. When Maudlin got to know about my condition, she started assisting me.
“Most of what happens to women when their husbands die depends on the relationship they share. My advice is for everyone to know that death is inevitable. If it happens that your husband goes before you, remain strong because everyone will eventually die,” the widow narrated.
Also, to Miracle Chisom, a young widow who lost her husband just last year, WACCA’s support has been a lifeline. “I was married three years ago, and my husband died on September 6, 2023. It was tough. I had many thoughts on how to care for our children. I wasn’t working then, and I didn’t know my right from my left until I met this organization.
“They supported me, and my husband’s sister taught me the work I do now. I thank God my children are doing well in school. My husband’s family has also been very supportive; they are still paying my children’s school fees. Any widow who is being maltreated should report to the government. Many widows are dying in silence, but they need to speak up.”
Another beneficiary, Onyinye Eze, described widowhood as a journey, urging other widows to remain determined.
“I lost my husband in 2014. It wasn’t easy, but I have learned a lot. Widowhood is a journey, but as long as you are on it, you must remain focused. I want to thank this great foundation and the women God is using to put smiles on our faces.
“My advice for widows is for them to be strong. Don’t lose hope or allow yourself to be intimidated. Be determined to live strong. I also want the government to empower widows through real skills acquisition,” Eze counselled.