Plateau Moves to End Gender Bias in Inheritance Laws

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The Plateau State House of Assembly has taken steps to safeguard the inheritance rights of women and girls, with broad backing from stakeholders across the state.

At a public hearing held on Tuesday, April 14, at the Assembly complex in Jos, representatives from government institutions, the judiciary, security agencies, traditional councils, civil society groups, and women advocacy organisations expressed strong support for a proposed bill aimed at ensuring equal inheritance rights.

The legislation seeks to address longstanding cultural practices that have historically excluded female children from inheriting family property, granting such rights primarily to male heirs. Stakeholders described the bill as timely and transformative, noting its potential to correct decades of gender-based discrimination.

Speaking at the hearing, Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary Matters, Hon. Kalamu Idris Gyang, said the Assembly is committed to ensuring the bill becomes law. He stressed that the measure reflects the will of the people and addresses a critical social imbalance.

“Women contribute significantly to family wealth and development, yet traditions have denied them inheritance rights. This law is designed to correct that imbalance and promote societal progress,” Gyang stated.

Similarly, Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Hon. Sylvester Wallangko, noted that the proposed law would help resolve persistent family disputes linked to inheritance issues.

He described the bill as a lasting solution to societal challenges that have fueled tensions within families, adding that once enacted, it would be binding on all residents of the state.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Social Welfare, Esther Simi Dusu, said the bill represents a major step toward empowering women and promoting fairness.

According to her, the legislation aligns with national policies on women’s property rights and would open up opportunities for women to thrive.

The proposed law, which has received widespread support, is expected to mark a significant shift toward gender equality and social justice in inheritance practices across Plateau State.