SUCCESSION AND INHERITANCE RIGHT: WOMEN, PROPERTY, AND MATERIALS TRANSFER IN IGBO LAND

In the Igbo society, the customary law regulates the succession and inheritance rights of women. The principle of primogeniture and the cultural practice of patriarchy are held supreme at the detriment of women. This has, in recent times, raised issues concerning women, property, and the transfer of materials in Igbo land. This paper presents an in-depth literature review of the administration of succession and inheritance rights in Igbo land. It adopted a qualitative and thematic approach, explaining the meanings of succession, inheritance rights, and customary law; the Igbo people and their land; inherited property; customary law and the female folk; and the implications of national, regional, and international provisions, declarations, and conventions. Recent court rulings portray better prospects for Igbo women. It was concluded that Igbo repugnant customary law rules will yield if deliberate efforts are made to change old practices