Anambra Enforces Ban on Casket Displays and Lengthy Mortuary Stays

In a bid to streamline burial practices and ease the financial burden on citizens, the Anambra State Government has enacted a new law prohibiting the public display of caskets and imposing restrictions on the depositing of corpses in mortuaries for over two months.

Governor Charles Soludo expressed his approval of the legislation, emphasizing its progressive nature. He stated, “Anambra Burial Law is a very progressive law to remove the burden and pressure on the poor as well as liberate women from oppressive practices during burials. We celebrate ‘befitting living’ and only a decent funeral.”

Under the newly instituted law, mortuary attendants are mandated to report to the Ministry of Health any corpse that has remained in their facility for more than one month from the date of deposit. Violation of this provision carries severe penalties, including a fine of N100,000, six months imprisonment, or both.

Additionally, the law addresses the public display of caskets, imposing a fine of N50,000 and the possibility of one month imprisonment for those found guilty of fabrication and sale without proper authorization.

Furthermore, the legislation stipulates that all burial and funeral ceremonies for indigenous deceased persons must be registered with the town union of the deceased. A registration fee of N1,500 is required for each ceremony.

The state government emphasized the prohibition of road and street blockages during burial ceremonies, noting that such actions can only be undertaken with the permission of the appropriate local government authority. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in legal consequences.

These measures aim to bring order and decency to burial practices in Anambra State, promoting a dignified farewell for the departed while addressing societal challenges associated with extravagant funeral customs.