A disturbing trend has emerged, threatening the very fabric of society. The proliferation of fake marriage certificates, obtained for immigration benefits, financial gains, social status, and legal convenience, has become a growing concern. Behind the facade of matrimony, individuals exploit the system, unaware of the severe consequences that await them.

For Tayo, hiring a marriage agent firm to obtain a fake certificate was the only option to live and work freely in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom (UK). After completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program in Nigeria, Tayo dreamed of leaving the country for greener pastures. A few years after arriving in the UK, he was advised to solidify his stay by obtaining a green card through marriage.

Believing the fake marriage certificate would secure his future, Tayo lived and worked comfortably in the UK for years. However, eight years later, his deceit was exposed, leaving him in legal turmoil. Tayo is not alone; many others are walking the same treacherous path in pursuit of a better life abroad.

Recently, four Nigerians—Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade (41), Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo (38), Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi (31), and Adekunle Kabir (54)—were convicted and sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court in the UK. They were involved in over 2,000 fake marriage schemes to help Nigerian citizens remain in the UK under the EU Settlement Scheme. The group received a combined prison sentence of 13 years, highlighting the severe legal repercussions of such fraudulent activities.

Marriage counselors and experts have condemned the trend, emphasizing its immorality and illegality. Mrs. Shukurat Badmus, a Lagos-based marriage counselor, stated that procuring or using fake marriage certificates involves deception and fraud. Joe Bollore, another counselor, acknowledged that some see it as a “necessary evil” in situations where real weddings are impossible due to circumstances like distance.

Miss Oyenike Bello, a student, lamented that the trend disrespects the sanctity of marriage, which is meant to be a sacred institution. Meanwhile, Mr. Jide Oluboye, a Lagos resident married for 15 years, noted that fake certificates are often seen as a convenient solution for avoiding the hassle and expense of a real wedding while securing immigration benefits.

In a viral video, content creator Dr. Shola addressed the issue, stating, “You can’t marry your green card.” He emphasized the importance of obtaining legal documentation to work and live in countries like the US and UK. Many Nigerians, he explained, enter these countries without proper papers and struggle for years to secure a green card. Some resort to marrying citizens to gain legal status, only to divorce later and return to Nigeria to marry their original partners.

Dr. Shola also highlighted the emotional toll on individuals, particularly women, who are often exploited in these arrangements. “Many women are depressed because of these actions,” he said.

Content creator Tosin Akingbade, also known as Citizen Tosin, shed light on the work permit challenges faced by Nigerians in the UAE. He revealed that Nigerian men in the UAE often rely on their wives’ visas, as men are denied work permits. Despite the Nigerian government’s claims that the visa ban has been lifted, Nigerians continue to face difficulties obtaining work and visit visas.

Akingbade warned that fake marriages can lead to immigration fraud, identity theft, financial exploitation, and emotional trauma, ultimately undermining the integrity of marriage and immigration laws.

Dr. Efe Anaughe, a human rights activist, stressed the need for stronger measures to combat the menace of fake marriage certificates. He highlighted Nigeria’s complex marriage laws, which include the Marriage Act of 1990, Islamic Law, and Customary Law, yet fail to prevent the proliferation of fraudulent certificates.

The consequences of obtaining fake marriage certificates are dire, including imprisonment, fines, deportation, and social stigma. To address this issue, Dr. Anaughe called for digitizing marriage records, strengthening verification processes, and launching public awareness campaigns. He also urged increased funding for relevant agencies and inter-agency collaboration to enforce laws effectively.

“We must unite against this hidden threat,” Dr. Anaughe said. “Protect the sanctity of marriage and uphold the rule of law.”

The rise of fake marriage certificates is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. While the pursuit of greener pastures is understandable, the deceptive means employed to achieve it have far-reaching consequences. Strengthening laws, improving verification systems, and raising public awareness are crucial steps in eradicating this menace and preserving the integrity of marriage and immigration systems.

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