The African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD), in collaboration with traditional rulers in Cross River State, has successfully abolished the long-standing “Money Woman” practice in Becheve communities of Obanliku Local Government Area.

The harmful tradition, which involved giving out young girls in marriage to settle family debts, has been described as a violation of fundamental human rights and a driver of gender-based violence.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja during a national summit on male feminism and gender-based violence prevention, the Executive Director of Centre LSD, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, described the development as a major breakthrough in the fight against oppressive cultural practices.

He disclosed that the organisation has also raised N6.2 million to secure the freedom of an initial 57 survivors affected by the practice.

According to Igbuzor, the “Money Woman” system denied victims access to education, personal development, and autonomy, while perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

He noted that efforts to abolish the practice began in August 2020 under the UN Women-funded Spotlight Initiative, in partnership with the Obanliku traditional council and local authorities, leading to the enactment of a by-law prohibiting the practice.

Igbuzor explained that a renewed round of community engagement with traditional rulers, clan heads, and other stakeholders culminated in a landmark meeting on March 12, 2026, where a consensus was reached to end the practice.

As part of the resolution, a standard sum of N100,000 was approved as the maximum amount to be paid to secure the release of affected women, replacing arbitrary and exploitative demands.

“This marked a turning point from uncertainty and exploitation to fairness, dignity, and clarity,” he said, adding that the process was community-driven to ensure sustainability.

He emphasised that many survivors had lived for years without access to education or economic opportunities, noting that empowerment initiatives would help them rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

Also speaking, the Paramount Ruler of Obanliku Local Government Area, HRH Amos Uyumulam, confirmed that the practice had been completely abolished in Becheve communities.

He said stakeholders agreed that any bride price paid under the system should be refunded—capped at N100,000—to facilitate the release of affected women.
Uyumulam added that in cases where women choose to remain in their marriages, the funds could be redirected toward their empowerment.

He commended community leaders and stakeholders for their commitment to ending the practice, noting that the decision reflects a shift toward protecting human dignity while allowing cultural evolution.

The development has been hailed as a significant step in addressing gender-based violence and advancing the rights of women and girls in the state.