The south eastern part of Nigeria covering a land mass of about 29, 000 square meters is home to the Igbos or Ibos. Although not a few anthropologists and historians believe that their origin is largely unknown, leaving it at the real of speculation, the Ibos link the history of their origin to the peoples who dwelt around the area where the Benue River empties into the Niger River dating back to several centuries. One of the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria, the Igbo people have been described as amorphous and egalitarian, but possessing huge cultural heritage. One of these is the unique culture of the Igbos around marriage (Igba Nkwu) and the idea of marriage list and/or dowry (ugwo aku nwanyi).
The whole institution of marriage holds a significant place of importance in Igbo culture and the issue of marriage list is a huge part of the Igbo cultural marriage ceremony. This is a comprehensive list containing several items to be provided by a suitor to the family of a bride as part of requirements to conclude a marriage deal. Usually, it contains fabrics; ornaments; food items; live stock; household items; as well as cash. This is without prejudice to the rendering of certain services as part of the nuptial requirements.
Although it is a matter of pride to provide all the items listed, there is often room for negotiations between representatives of both families which is usually a function of a combination of factors ranging from level of education of the bride to family social status and similar variables. Success in the dialogue is often a function of indebt knowledge of culture, custom and tradition. However, it must be understood that the Igbo marriage list is seen as a sign of respect and recognition of womanhood; serves as a form of economic enablement and compensation for the brides’ family, including the fact that it serves to preserve culture.
The complete provision of the items in the Igbo marriage list without argument and bickering often is seen as being reflective of the social status of and how financially stable the groom is. However, in recent times, the concept has been a subject of discussion in various fora as to its necessity. There are arguments that such practice has become old-fashioned and not in tune with contemporary trend, hence should be discarded. There are also complaints of the idea encouraging some form of inequality and exploitation which tends to threaten marriage when eventually consummated. Consequently, adaptation of the concept has taken place to accommodate emerging concerns across board.
What ever the case, the Igbo tradition of marriage list is part of the pride of the Igbos and every bride looks forward to her suitor successfully navigating that process with excitement. There is no gain saying that this is one of those tradition that could cement relationship in marriage when viewed from a positive light. The reason is imbedded in the statement that what cost fortune would always be preserved. To this end, the continuous adaptation of the tradition should be encouraged in the spirit of preserving the beautiful culture, rather than to do otherwise.
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