Government Moves to Standardise Bride Prices, Ease Marriage Costs

Lawmakers have called for the standardisation of bride prices and traditional marriage requirements across communities, saying the growing commercialisation of marriage has placed an unfair burden on young couples.

The motion, sponsored by Hon. Selinah Ukpatu, representing Ikot Abasi/Eastern Obolo State Constituency, highlighted concerns that excessive bride prices and long, expensive marriage lists are discouraging many young people from getting married and contributing to broader social challenges.

According to the lawmaker, while cultural traditions should be preserved, they must also reflect present-day economic realities. She argued that making traditional marriages more affordable would encourage family formation, strengthen societal values, and promote community development.

Following debate, the House resolved to urge the Akwa Ibom State Traditional Rulers Council to review and standardise bride prices and marriage requirements across the state.

Lawmakers also asked the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to work with traditional rulers and local government authorities to ensure compliance with approved guidelines.

The House Committee on Culture and Tourism was further directed to engage stakeholders and develop recommendations for affordable, culturally acceptable marriage practices, while the Ministry of Information and AKBC were tasked with sensitising the public on the social and economic effects of excessive bride prices.

Speaker Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong commended the sponsor for raising what he described as an important social and economic issue and directed the Clerk of the House to communicate the Assembly’s resolutions to the relevant authorities for implementation.