The Cross River State House of Assembly has passed the second reading of a bill seeking to prohibit same-sex marriage and civil unions in the state.
The proposed legislation, 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 Bisong, with 10 co-sponsors.
If enacted, the bill would prohibit the recognition and solemnization of same-sex marriages and civil unions in Cross River State, including unions contracted outside the state or Nigeria.
It also proposes penalties for individuals who aid, promote or facilitate such unions.
During plenary, lawmakers unanimously supported the bill, saying it was aimed at preserving the state’s cultural, moral and family values.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, said the Assembly had a responsibility to protect marriage as recognised by the customs, traditions and laws of Cross River State, maintaining that marriage is between a man and a woman.
The bill has now progressed to the next stage of the legislative process, where it will undergo further scrutiny before a possible third reading and transmission to the governor for assent.
