The Cross River State House of Assembly has passed for second reading 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, Hilary Bisong, and co-sponsored by 10 lawmakers.
If enacted, the bill would 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 seeks to recognise only marriages between a man and a woman as valid in the state and prescribes penalties for offenders as well as persons who aid, promote or facilitate such unions.
Leading the debate during plenary on Tuesday , lawmakers unanimously supported the bill, describing it as a measure aimed at preserving the state’s cultural, moral and family values.
Speaking on the bill, the Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, said the Assembly had 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 remains a union between a man and a woman, adding that the Assembly would not support practices it considers 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,” Ayambem said.
The bill has now scaled second reading and is expected to proceed to the committee stage for further legislative consideration before a third reading and possible passage.