The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has commenced efforts to regulate bride prices and traditional marriage requirements across the state in a bid to reduce the financial burden on intending couples.
The move followed deliberations during Thursday’s plenary after a motion was presented by the member representing Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, Hon. Selinah Isotuk Ukpatu.
Presenting the motion, Ukpatu described marriage as a vital social institution that promotes stable families and strengthens communities. She, however, expressed concern over the growing commercialization of traditional marriage rites, which she said has placed enormous financial pressure on families and young people seeking to marry.
According to the lawmaker, the escalating cost of bride prices and lengthy lists of marriage requirements have become major obstacles for many intending couples, forcing some to postpone marriage due to prevailing economic challenges.
She stressed that while cultural traditions should be preserved, there is an urgent need to review existing practices to reflect current economic realities.
Following extensive debate, lawmakers unanimously supported the motion, describing it as timely and necessary.
The House subsequently urged the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council to review existing bride price structures and marriage requirements across communities and develop uniform guidelines that would make marriage more affordable without eroding the state’s cultural heritage.
The Assembly also directed the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to work with traditional rulers and local government authorities to ensure compliance with any framework eventually adopted.
In addition, the House mandated its Committee on Culture and Tourism to engage relevant stakeholders and submit recommendations that would promote fair, affordable and culturally acceptable marriage practices.
The lawmakers further tasked the Ministry of Information and the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation with embarking on statewide public sensitisation campaigns to educate residents on the economic and social implications of excessive bride prices and exploitative marriage demands.
Relevant agencies were also instructed to monitor implementation and report progress to the Assembly for further legislative action where necessary.
Members noted that reducing barriers to marriage would strengthen family values, promote social stability and contribute to community development across the state.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, commended the sponsor of the motion and members for what he described as a thoughtful and people-oriented intervention.
He subsequently directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the resolutions of the Assembly to the relevant authorities for immediate action.