Changes and Continuity of Widowhood Practices in Isiamaigbo-Agulu

Abstract

There have been many cultural practices against Igbo-African women. Widowhood practices are among some of those practices in which some obnoxious treatments are meted out against the women in most African communities.This study aims to correct the misconception about the dynamic reality of culture especiallyby some traditionalists who believe that cultural practices must remain unchanged.There have been notable changes and improvements in the widowhood practices from 1970 to 2015 in Isiamaigbo village, Agulu. Scholarly works were reviewed to ascertain the views of other writers as related to the study. Survey research method was used to gather the opinion of some elders and widows in Isiamaigbo to examine among other things the changes that have taken place in the practices over the years in study. Theory of gender inequality was used to make analysis. It reveals that many positive changes have been effected in the widowhood practices mainly because majority of the community members have converted from traditional religion to Christianity. It is believed that the research would benefit every member of the society as communities that are still practising some inhumane treatments especially against women are advised to discard them and embrace the present positive procedures. The findings also reveal that the practices have been culturally modified and changed from bad to good and from good to better. This work however recommends that proper orientation and education should be given to the women to be able to fight for their rights, and government should make sure that policies made to protect widows are implemented.