Same-sex marriage prohibition bill scales second reading in Cross River Assembly

A Bill seeking to prohibit same-sex marriage and civil unions in Cross River state has passed through a second reading in the House of Assembly.

The Bill, titled “A Bill for a Law to Prohibit Contract of Marriage or Civil Union Entered into Between Persons of Same Sex, Solemnization of Same, Whether Cultural or in Accordance with Any Statute in Existence, and for Matters Connected Therewith, 2026,” is sponsored by the Member representing Boki II State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Hilary Ekpang Bisong, and co-sponsored by 10 lawmakers.

The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit the recognition and solemnisation of same-sex marriages and civil unions in Cross River state, including those contracted outside the state or Nigeria.

It also proposes that only marriages between a man and a woman shall be recognised as valid in the state, while prescribing penalties for offenders and persons who aid, promote or facilitate such unions.

Leading the debate on the Bill during plenary, lawmakers unanimously supported its general principles, describing it as a measure to preserve the state’s cultural, moral and family values.

The Speaker of the Cross River state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the House has a constitutional and moral responsibility to protect the institution of marriage as recognised by the laws, customs and traditions of the people of Cross River state.

He maintained that marriage remained a union between a man and a woman, stressing that the Assembly would not support any practice inconsistent with the state’s cultural and religious values.

“As representatives of the people, we have a duty to preserve the moral fabric of our society and enact laws that reflect the collective values of our citizens. Cross River State has always upheld marriage as a union between a man and a woman, and this House will continue to defend that position,” the Speaker said.