Proposed legislation reportedly backed by the deputy governor prescribes prison terms for women, while married men face only fines

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly is set to deliberate on a highly controversial bill that seeks to criminalise sexual relationships between married men and unmarried women, a move that has already sparked widespread public debate.

Details of the proposed legislation were made public by a legal practitioner, Obiavel Albert Abigo, in a Facebook post on Monday. Abigo disclosed that the bill is allegedly sponsored by the Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Inyang, and is expected to be presented before lawmakers during plenary.

According to the provisions of the bill, any young girl, lady, or woman who engages in a sexual relationship with a married man would be deemed to have committed an offence under Akwa Ibom State law. Upon conviction, such a woman would face a mandatory 10-year prison sentence without the option of a fine.

In contrast, the married man involved in the relationship would not be subject to imprisonment. Instead, the bill proposes a financial penalty of ₦2 million as punishment for his role in the affair.

Abigo quoted the bill as clearly stating that “any woman found guilty of engaging in a sexual relationship with a married man shall be sentenced to a compulsory 10-year jail term without an option of fine.” He further noted that the House is expected to consider and possibly pass the bill when it comes up for discussion.

The proposed legislation has triggered intense reactions across the country, with critics questioning its fairness, enforceability, and gender balance. Many Nigerians have called on lawmakers to allow broader public engagement and deeper legislative scrutiny before moving forward with a law that could have far-reaching social and legal implications.

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