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How To Easily Do Court Marriage In Nigeria: Process And Requirements
Court marriages, also known as statutory marriages, are increasingly popular in Nigeria due to their legal backing and straightforward process. They provide couples with a formal and legally recognized union, often seen as more secure compared to traditional or religious marriages. This blog post walks you through the process and requirements for a court marriage in Nigeria, making it easy to understand and follow.
Why Opt for a Court Marriage in Nigeria?
A court marriage in Nigeria offers various benefits, such as legal recognition, protection under the law, and ease of paperwork. It also gives couples access to legal recourse in the event of disputes, inheritance, or other matters. Moreover, it simplifies the marriage process, especially for couples from different cultural or religious backgrounds, and guarantees equal rights under Nigerian law.
Steps for Court Marriage in Nigeria
1. Filing the Notice of Marriage
The first step towards a court marriage is filling out the Notice of Marriage (Form A). Both intending parties must submit this form at the local Marriage Registry where one of the parties has lived for at least 15 days. The form contains basic information about the couple, such as names, ages, and marital statuses. You will also need two recent passport photographs.
Once submitted, the notice is displayed on the Registry’s notice board for a period of 21 days. This is to allow for any objections to the marriage. If there are no objections after this period, the Registrar will issue Form C, which confirms the marriage is free to proceed. The couple can now pick a date for the ceremony, which should take place within three months from when the notice was filed.
2. Verification and Affidavits
After the notice period, couples will be required to complete additional forms: the Affidavit Form, Prohibited Degree Form, and an Information Slip. These forms help verify that the couple meets all legal requirements for marriage, such as being of legal age (18 or older), single (or having provided evidence of divorce or widowhood), and not closely related by blood.
Both parties must then take an oath at the Registry, confirming that all the information they provided is accurate. This is a crucial part of the process, as false information can invalidate the marriage.
3. Choosing a Wedding Date
Once the forms are submitted, the next step is to choose a date for the marriage ceremony. The chosen date must fall within three months from when the notice was filed. If the marriage does not take place within this timeframe, the couple will have to start the process over.
4. The Wedding Day
On the wedding day, both partners must arrive at the Registry along with at least two adult witnesses—one for each party. The ceremony typically lasts about 30 minutes. Couples are expected to exchange rings (or use a Bible or Quran if preferred) during the ceremony. Afterward, the marriage certificate is signed by the couple, the witnesses, and the Registrar.
If the couple prefers a religious ceremony, they may have their court marriage followed by a church wedding, provided that the church is licensed to conduct marriages.
Required Documents for Court Marriage in Nigeria
To ensure a smooth process, the couple must have the following documents ready:
- Birth certificate or age declaration for both parties.
- Passport photographs (number may vary by registry).
- Evidence of single status, such as a sworn affidavit or certificate of bachelorhood/spinsterhood.
- If previously married, a divorce certificate or certificate of death of the former spouse.
- If applicable, consent from parents or guardians for parties below the age of 18.
For foreign nationals or residents, additional documents like a passport data page, arrival stamp, or residence permit may be required.
Fees for Court Marriage
The cost of a court marriage in Nigeria varies depending on the type of marriage. Here are the typical fees:
- Ordinary marriage: ₦15,000
- Special marriage: ₦25,000
- Document verification: ₦15,000
- Marriage certificate reissue: Varies.
Advantages of Court Marriage
There are several reasons why many couples in Nigeria opt for court marriages:
- Legal Protection: Court marriages offer legal backing, providing spouses with rights and protections under Nigerian law.
- Simplicity: The process is relatively straightforward, and the documentation required is minimal.
- Equal Rights: Both spouses have equal rights, including inheritance, property ownership, and the ability to make legal claims in the event of separation or death.
- Security: In cases of inheritance or divorce, the court-recognized marriage certificate can simplify legal proceedings.
Conclusion
Court marriages in Nigeria offer a structured, legally recognized process for couples seeking a secure union. While the steps are simple, it is essential to ensure that all documentation is accurate and that both parties meet the necessary legal requirements. By following the outlined process, you can ensure that your court marriage goes smoothly, providing both security and peace of mind.
If you are considering court marriage in Nigeria, visit your local Marriage Registry to begin the process.
