National Telescope national telescope newspaper
The Akwa Ibom State Ethical and Attitudinal Reorientation Commission (EARCOM) has called on traditional institutions to urgently address the issue of exorbitant marriage lists.
This move aims to reassess traditional marriage ceremony demands and ensure smooth negotiations between prospective in-laws, leading to successful marriages.
Sir Ubong Ekefre, a Commissioner on the Governing Board of EARCOM, noted the necessity of this call following a recent viral incident where a young suitor abandoned his fiancée due to contentious marriage list demands and failed negotiations.
Sir Ekefre noted that EARCOM has consistently campaigned against two cultural anomalies: outrageous burial rites and exorbitant marriage lists.
These practices have left many families and young couples bankrupt, indebted, and frustrated after ceremonies.
He stressed that while a daughter is invaluable, moderation and love should guide negotiations between potential suitors and their would-be in-laws, as marriage is intended to be a lifetime union.
He urged traditional institutions, including the Forum of Family Heads, Village Heads, Clan Heads, and paramount rulers, to urgently review cultural practices that complicate marriage negotiations.
He observed that many young men are deterred from marrying, while many young women remain single due to the excessive demands.
Sir Ekefre also highlighted that traditional institutions in several northern states and other parts of Nigeria have already initiated similar reforms, including mass weddings supported by religious and local authorities.
He expressed confidence that if these changes are implemented, more young people will be encouraged to marry and start families earlier.
