Katsina State Government has introduced a new leave policy, granting female civil servants four months and ten days of leave following the loss of their husbands.
Gatekeepers News reports that this policy is based on the Islamic tradition of Iddah Period.
The State House of Assembly initiated the motion, which was approved by the Executive Arm and implemented following recommendations from the Executive Council Members.
According to Falalu Bawale, Head of Civil Service, a circular has been issued to all State ministries, departments, and agencies to ensure female officers are allowed to observe this period when necessary.
“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 go and make a rule that suits their purpose. So we can come back here and present the issue before the state executive council, if it’s approved then it can be implemented.
“So we drafted a memo and presented it before the state executive council which the council graciously approved and considered our recommendations.
“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.
