Katsina State Government has introduced “Iddah Period Law”, to enable female civil servants to stay home for four months and ten days should they lose their husbands.
Islamically, Iddah Period is observed when a woman loses her husband.
The introduction of the new law came after the State House of Assembly passed a motion, seeking the state government to look into the issue of Iddah Period which was graciously approved by the Executive Arm, working on recommendations tabled by the Executive Council Members.
The Katsina State Head of Civil Service, Falalu Bawale, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Monday in Katsina.
Bwale further said a circular has been issued to all the ministries, departments and agencies of the State government to grant its female officers the liberty to observe the period when the need arises.
He said, “We decided to take the issue before the National Council on Establishment so that it can be included in the civil service rules where women who lost their husbands will be allowed to stay and observe the Iddah period after the death of her husband.
“The council said, all States have the liberty to make a rule that suits their purpose. So we can come back here and present the issue before the state executive council; if it is approved, then it can be implemented.
“We have now issued a circular to all ministries, departments and agencies to grant female officers the chance to observe Iddah period. It has now become a law”, he said.
