By Jimitota Onoyume

PORT HARCOURT—Rivers State governor, Mr Nyesom Wike has promised to reduce the plight of widows in the state with the setting up of  Widow’s Economic Empowerment Scheme.

The governor expressed the hope that the scheme will help widows overcome  the challenge of raising their families in the absence of their husbands.

The governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Kenneth Kobani also appealed to communities in the state with harmful  practices against widows to discontinue them.

Wife of the governor, Justice Suzzettee Wike also charged widows to explore the constitution to protect themselves against harmful traditional practices targeted at them.

She also enjoined traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to join the crusade to protect widows from  harmful traditional practices.

Commissioner for Women Affairs, Ukel Oyaghiri also appealed to stakeholders in communities to support the current efforts against harmful traditional practices against widows.

She said communities should key into the new drive.