Cross River Assembly advances bill to ban same-sex marriage

The Cross River State House of Assembly has moved a step closer to outlawing same-sex marriage and civil unions within the state, as a bill proposing a complete ban successfully passed its second reading during a plenary session. The 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,” was introduced by lawmaker Hilary Bisong and co-sponsored by ten other legislators.

If enacted, the bill would prevent the recognition and solemnization of same-sex marriages and civil unions within Cross River State, including those established elsewhere. It aims to legally cement marriage solely as a union between a man and a woman under state law. The proposed law also outlines penalties for individuals who violate its provisions or facilitate same-sex unions.

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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.

During the debate on the bill's general principles, lawmakers unanimously supported the legislation. Speaker Elvert Ayambem stated that the Assembly is constitutionally and morally obligated to uphold the institution of marriage as defined by the customs, traditions, and laws of Cross River State. He asserted that marriage remains exclusively a union between a man and a woman, and the House is committed to resisting practices that contradict the state's cultural and religious values. Ayambem stressed the duty of representatives to preserve societal moral fabric and enact laws reflecting citizens' collective values, reaffirming the House's stance in defending marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

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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.