The Cross River House of Assembly on Wednesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to prohibit same-sex marriage and civil unions.

The bill also seeks to bar the solemnisation and recognition of same-sex marriages, including those contracted outside the state, regardless of culture, tradition or existing law.

The sponsor of the bill, Hilary Bisong, a member representing Boki II State Constituency, said during the plenary that the proposal was rooted in biblical teachings on marriage.

Mr Bisong cited Genesis chapter 1, verse 27, and Genesis chapter 2, verse 24, describing marriage as a union between a man and a woman.

He also referenced the account of Sodom and Gomorrah and Leviticus chapter 20, verse 13, arguing that same-sex relationships contradicted biblical principles.

According to him, the bill provides that same-sex marriages or civil unions shall not enjoy legal recognition or benefits of a valid marriage in Cross River.

“It also provides that certificates issued for same-sex marriages outside the state will not be recognised within Cross River, and courts in the state shall not enforce benefits arising from such unions, whether certificated or otherwise,” he said.

Mr Bisong said Section 4(7) of the 1999 Constitution empowers the state house of assembly to legislate for peace, order and good governance.

He said the proposed law would prohibit the solemnisation of same-sex unions in churches, courts, mosques, traditional shrines and other places of worship.

Lawmakers unanimously supported the bill, describing same-sex unions as inconsistent with their moral and religious beliefs.

Some of the lawmakers characterised same-sex relationships as harmful to society and called for legislation to discourage it.

Speaker Elvert Ayambem commended members for their contributions during the debate.

Mr Ayambem expressed concern over what he described as increasing sexual perversion in Cross River. He said the assembly would ensure that the law prescribed stiff penalties to deter violations if eventually passed.

(NAN)