Government moves to curb lavish funeral ceremonies
The Anambra State Government has introduced a new law regulating burial and funeral activities across the state.
The legislation bans the presentation of cows, goats, bags of rice, and other expensive items during condolence visits.
Lawmakers in the Anambra State House of Assembly passed the law to reduce extravagant funeral practices and ease financial pressure on grieving families.
State bans midweek burials
Under the new regulation, residents can only conduct burial ceremonies on Saturdays.
The law prohibits burials from Monday to Friday and directs families to complete funeral activities within one day.
Authorities also abolished wake-keep ceremonies across the state.
Religious activities such as vigil masses and services of songs must end by 9 p.m.
New limits placed on condolence gifts
The law limits condolence gifts to money, one jar of palm wine, one carton of beer, and one crate of soft drinks.
Officials said the measure would discourage excessive spending during funerals.
The regulation also makes food and drinks optional for guests and bans the distribution of souvenirs.
Government restricts funeral displays and entertainment
The legislation prohibits billboards, posters, and banners displaying images of deceased persons.
Families may only use directional signs to burial venues, and they cannot display them earlier than seven days before the funeral.
The law also bans dancing with caskets and public display of caskets for advertisement or sale.
Live bands, cultural entertainment, and large social gatherings during wake events are no longer allowed.
Mortuary stay limited to two months
The new law directs families not to keep corpses in mortuaries beyond two months after death.
Authorities warned that any corpse kept longer could face classification as a “rejected corpse.”
The government plans to establish designated burial grounds in communities across the state.
Offenders risk jail term and fines
Violators of the law face a ₦100,000 fine, six months imprisonment, or both.
The government also banned road blockages, unauthorised firearm use, destruction of property, and disruptive youth activities during funerals.
Only close family members, church groups, and recognised traditional groups can wear uniform funeral attire known as “aso ebi.”
Committees to monitor compliance
The state will create monitoring committees in different communities to enforce the law.
The committees will oversee death registrations, approve burial arrangements, and monitor compliance.
Officials said the reforms aim to restore order to funeral ceremonies and improve economic productivity across the state.
