By Leonard Okachie
A don, Prof. Roseline Ndimele, has challenged the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) to create platforms for awareness and advocacy to break the barriers against women’s access to inheritance.
Ndimele, a former Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies at Abia State University, Uturu, gave the charge at the opening ceremony of the FIDA Abia 2024 Week in Umuahia on Wednesday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the week is “Breaking Barriers: Women’s Access to Inheritance in Patriarchal Societies.”
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Ndimele, the Keynote Speaker, said women are ignorant of their rights, and called on other women organisations and Non-Government Organisations to be involved in the campaign.
She defined patriarchal society as a society in which men have authority over women in all aspects; from politics to morals to economics and even actions of women.
According to her, breaking barriers to women’s inheritance in patriarchal society requires multifaceted approach that will tackle legal, cultural, economic and social challenges.
She reiterated the importance of legal literacy, saying “legal assistance should be extended to those who need help.
“The timid acceptance of male domination pervades the psyche of most women and determines their worldview.
“This makes it difficult to fight patriarchal bondage.
“Many women are not educated and even the educated ones do not have access to legal resources.”
Ndimele, a former commissioner in Abia, advised FIDA and other relevant organisations not to concentrate on media messages alone, but take the awareness and advocacy to rural areas.
The FIDA Chairperson, Dr Akudo Amanamba, described the week as “a celebration of the group’s commitment to advancing women’s rights and empowerment.
“The theme of the week is a reminder of our collective efforts to create a society where women and girls can thrive.”
Amanamba explained that the group would engage in meaningful discussions, skills-building and networking throughout the week.
“We will honour outstanding women’s rights advocates during our special awards ceremony,” the chairperson added.
NAN reports that the group presented the “Best Husband Award” to Mr Nicholas Ekendu, a Deputy Superintendent of Corrections.
Highlight of the event was the unveiling of the maiden edition of FIDA Abia, 2025 Diary.(NAN)
