The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has resolved to push for the regulation and standardisation of bride prices and traditional marriage requirements across communities in the state in a bid to ease the financial burden on intending couples.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by the member representing Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, Hon. Selinah Ukpatu, who raised concerns over the growing commercialisation of traditional marriage rites.
Ukpatu told the House that exorbitant bride prices and lengthy marriage lists have made marriage increasingly unaffordable for many young people, leading to delayed marriages and other social challenges.
She stressed that while cultural traditions should be preserved, prevailing economic realities require reforms that would make traditional marriages more affordable without eroding the state’s cultural heritage.
Following deliberations, lawmakers urged the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council to review and standardise bride prices and marriage requirements across communities.
They also called on the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to collaborate with traditional institutions and local government authorities to ensure compliance with the approved guidelines.
The Assembly further mandated its House Committee on Culture and Tourism to engage relevant stakeholders and develop recommendations for marriage practices that are both affordable and culturally acceptable.
In addition, lawmakers requested the Ministry of Information and the Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (AKBC) to launch public awareness campaigns on the social and economic effects of excessive bride prices.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, commended the sponsor for bringing forward what he described as an issue of significant social and economic importance.
He also praised members for their contributions before directing the Clerk of the House, Mrs. NsikakAbasi Orok, to communicate the Assembly’s resolutions to the relevant authorities for implementation.
