MARRIAGE BRIDE PRICE AS A WOMAN AUTHORITY AND THE IMPLICATION OF NON-PAYMENT OF BRIDE PRICE IN MBAISE

Abstract

In Igboland, bride price payment is symbolic in Igbo traditional marriage which pronounces man and woman husband and wife. It does not matter how much to be paid; especially in Mbaise of Imo State, the official amount paid as bride price is sixty naira (₦ 60) till date. However, non-payment of bride price poses a threat in the community, especially after the death of a woman whose bride price has not been paid. The study aims to ascertain the payment of bride price as women's authority in Igbo marriage and the implication of non-payment of bride price. The study adopts survey design and oral interview for the collection of data. The data were collected from a sample of adult citizens from the three local government areas of Mbaise town, all in Imo State. A total number of 40 adults (20 women and 20 men) were involved in the study. The analysis of the data is based on the interpretation of answers, statements and comments of the respondents and not based on quantitative variables. The finding reveals that bride price payment is an honor to a woman among her women folk, including the entire community, and the power to become an authorized member of the community into which she is married and the payment of bride price is not in any way for the commercialization of a woman. The finding also reveals that non-payment of bride price in Igbo marriage is seen as equivalent to stealing. The study recommends that marriage bride price should be paid before man and woman cohabit as husband and wife, to avoid wanton disturbances emanating from non-payment of bride price.