Soludo Signs New Burial Law, Bans Extravagant Funeral Practices In Anambra

The Anambra State Government has introduced a new burial regulation aimed at curbing extravagant funeral ceremonies and reducing the financial burden on families across the state.

The new law, signed by Charles Soludo, places restrictions on several funeral practices considered excessive and disruptive to economic and social activities.

Under the regulation, all burials and funeral ceremonies are now restricted to Saturdays, while weekday burials and wake-keeps have been prohibited.

The law also bans the presentation of costly condolence gifts such as cows, goats, bags of rice, and other expensive items during funeral ceremonies. According to the new guidelines, only cash donations, one jar of palm wine, one carton of beer, and one crate of soft drinks will be permitted as condolence offerings.

Other provisions of the law include a ban on dancing with caskets, spraying of money, and the sharing of souvenirs at funerals. The government also prohibited the erection of posters and billboards of deceased persons across the state.

In addition, all funeral activities are expected to be concluded within one day, while vigil masses and service of songs must end by 9 p.m. The law further prohibits the blocking of roads during burials and stipulates that corpses must not remain in mortuaries for more than two months.

The Anambra State Government said the measures were introduced to restore order, discourage wasteful spending, and prevent prolonged funeral activities from negatively affecting businesses and productivity within the state.

Violators of the law risk a fine of ₦100,000, six months imprisonment, or both.