Politics
A/Ibom Assembly to Standadise Bride Price, Marriage Requirements – THISAGE
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has initiated moves to address rising concerns over excessive bride prices and burdensome marriage requirements across communities in the state, urging traditional institutions to establish uniform guidelines that will make marriage more affordable for young people.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by the member representing Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, Hon. Selinah Isotuk Ukpatu, during Thursday’s plenary sitting.
Presenting the motion, Ukpatu described marriage as a critical social institution that promotes family stability, social cohesion and overall societal development. She, however, expressed concern over what she described as the growing commercialization of traditional marriage rites.
According to the lawmaker, escalating bride prices and lengthy lists of marriage requirements have imposed severe financial burdens on intending couples, making marriage increasingly difficult for many young people and contributing to delayed family formation.
She argued that while cultural traditions should be preserved, prevailing economic realities require a balanced approach that would ensure marriage remains accessible to citizens without undermining the values and customs of various communities.
Following deliberations, the House urged the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council to review and standardise bride prices and marriage requirements across the state’s communities.
The Assembly also called on the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to work with traditional rulers and local government authorities to ensure adherence to any approved guidelines.
Lawmakers further mandated the House Committee on Culture and Tourism to engage relevant stakeholders and develop recommendations aimed at promoting affordable and culturally acceptable marriage practices throughout the state.
In addition, the House requested the Ministry of Information and the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC) to embark on public enlightenment campaigns on the social and economic consequences of excessive bride prices and exploitative marriage demands.
Relevant government agencies were also directed to monitor the implementation of any measures that may be adopted and report progress to the legislature for possible further action.
The motion received unanimous support from members of the Assembly, who described the initiative as timely, noting that reducing financial barriers to marriage would strengthen family values and support community development.
Ruling on the motion, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, commended the sponsor and members for their contributions to the debate.
He subsequently directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the resolutions of the Assembly to the relevant authorities for necessary action.
Post Views:
24
