ABSTRACT
From the beginning of time, transition from one generation to another has been one of the characteristics of human existence. Such transition includes assets and, in some cases, liabilities which are handed down to the succeeding generations. Generally, the intestate succession under the customary law among the various tribes in Nigeria is full of discrimination, especially to the female gender, adopted children, illegitimate children, among others. This article examined the right Nigerian women have to inherit under the customary/intestate laws of the major ethnic groups (Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo) and sought to bring to light the fact that discrimination of women, for any reason is a breach of their fundamental human right and although laws and statutes are in place, enforceability is still an unsettled problem due to customary laws and beliefs of each community.