In Nigeria, the passing of a spouse triggers numerous legal and administrative processes involving inheritance, pension funds, bank account access, and insurance claims. This affidavit acts as the deponent's sworn statement attesting to her status as the lawful surviving spouse of the deceased.
Why Not Just a Death Certificate?
While a Death Certificate issued by the National Population Commission (NPC) or a hospital proves that a person has died, it does not prove who the surviving spouse is. The Affidavit of Widowhood connects the woman to the deceased. It is almost always required alongside the death certificate by probate registries when applying for Letters of Administration (authority to manage the deceased's estate). Banks will request it to freeze or transfer the husband's funds, and Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) require it to process death benefits.
Reverting to Maiden Name
Another common use for this affidavit is if the widow chooses to revert to her maiden name or needs to update her Next of Kin data. It provides the legal basis for the change of status on her identification documents (like International Passport or Driver's License).
Required Particulars
The affidavit must contain the full name of the widow, the full name of the deceased husband, the date of his death, and typically the place of death. It must unequivocally state that she was legally married to him (whether Statutory or Customary) and that she has not remarried since his death. This declaration of 'non-remarriage' is crucial for claiming benefits that are exclusive to the current widow. By swearing on oath, the widow makes herself liable to perjury laws if the information is found to be false.