Nigeria's mass wedding - and how telling lovers from fraudsters is proving tricky
Summary
In Kano, Nigeria, 1,500 couples recently took part in a mass wedding event sponsored by the state government, which covers costs like dowries and household items. The event helps low-income people afford marriage, but officials say it is difficult to distinguish genuine couples from those trying to take advantage of the scheme.Key Facts
- The mass wedding took place in Kano, a northern Nigerian city with a mostly Muslim population.
- The Kano state government paid about 1.5 billion naira ($1 million) for the event and support for the couples.
- Each couple receives a dowry of 100,000 naira and household items like beds, mattresses, and furniture.
- The scheme started in 2012 and has grown from 100 couples to 1,500 couples this year, with 5,000 applicants.
- Couples must pass medical tests for HIV, hepatitis, pregnancy, and genetic compatibility before joining.
- The Hisbah, Kano's Islamic police, vet the couples to prevent fraud and disqualify suspicious applicants.
- Some couples have tried to cheat, including altering medical results or using false identities.
- The local economy struggles, making some people desperate to join and leading to attempts to bribe officials.
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