Katsina State Enacts “Iddah Period Law” for Female Civil Servants

The Katsina State Government has enacted the “Iddah Period Law,” allowing female civil servants to observe a traditional mourning period of four months and ten days following the loss of their husbands.

The State House of Assembly enacted this legislation after the bill was approved by the State Executive Council and sent to the state assembly by the governor’s office.

Alhaji Falalu Bawale, the Katsina State Head of Civil Service, announced that a circular had been distributed to all state ministries, departments, and agencies, instructing them to permit female officers to take leave for the Iddah period when necessary.

Following their recommendations, the state executive council will implement the law, ensuring that women who have lost their husbands can take the time needed to mourn according to cultural and Islamic tenets.

The Federal Executive Council refused to accept it as a national policy but asked states to decide what to do with it at the state legislative level.

“^{The ‘iddah is an Islamic period of time following a woman’s divorce or husband’s death, typically ranging from three menstrual periods to four months and ten days for widows. During this time, the woman is expected to remain in the marital home, unless there’s a dire need to leave or find a safer place. She is not allowed to contract a new marriage and should not consider new marriage proposals until after the waiting period. The husband must provide for the woman, and if she is a widow, her maintenance must be taken from her estate.}“

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