In Nnewi, a town in Anambra State, Nigeria, traditional marriage, known as “Igbankwu,” is a significant cultural event that unites not just the couple but their families and communities. The process involves several stages, each with its own customs and traditions. Below is an overview of the steps typically involved:
Introduction and Inquiry (Iku Aka or Iju Ese):
The groom, accompanied by his father or an elder from his family, visits the bride’s family to express his interest in marrying their daughter. This visit is primarily for both families to become acquainted and to seek the bride’s consent. It’s customary to bring kola nuts and palm wine as tokens of goodwill
Consent from the Umunna (Extended Family):
The groom formally asks for the bride’s hand in marriage in the presence of her extended family, known as the Umunna. This gathering allows the family to assess the groom’s intentions and character.
Bride Price Negotiation and Payment (Ime Ego):
The groom’s family receives a list of items and monetary requirements, symbolizing the bride’s value and the groom’s commitment. Negotiations may take place to agree on the bride price, which often includes items like kola nuts, goats, wine, and other gifts.
Traditional Marriage Ceremony (Igba Nkwu Nwanyi):
Venue: Traditionally held at the bride’s family compound.
Attire: The bride adorns herself in elegant traditional attire, often with coral beads and a head tie, while the groom wears traditional garments such as an overflowing jumper or a long-sleeved shirt over a wrapper tied around the waist, complemented by a cap and walking stick.
Ceremony Highlights: Presentation of Kola Nuts: The families exchange kola nuts, offering prayers and blessings for the couple.
Wine-Carrying Ritual: The bride searches for the groom among the guests and offers him a cup of palm wine, signifying her acceptance and the couple’s union.
Parental Blessings: The couple kneels before the bride’s parents to receive their blessings.
Celebration: The event features traditional music, dances, and a feast, celebrating the union of the two families.
Attire: The bride adorns herself in elegant traditional attire, often with coral beads and a head tie, while the groom wears traditional garments such as an overflowing jumper or a long-sleeved shirt over a wrapper tied around the waist, complemented by a cap and walking stick.
Ceremony Highlights: Presentation of Kola Nuts: The families exchange kola nuts, offering prayers and blessings for the couple.
Wine-Carrying Ritual: The bride searches for the groom among the guests and offers him a cup of palm wine, signifying her acceptance and the couple’s union.
Parental Blessings: The couple kneels before the bride’s parents to receive their blessings.
Celebration: The event features traditional music, dances, and a feast, celebrating the union of the two families.
Post-Ceremony Visits (Bia Malu Ulo):
After the traditional marriage, the bride’s family visits the couple’s new home, bringing gifts and essentials to support the new household.
These steps encapsulate the rich cultural heritage of Nnewi’s traditional marriage rites, emphasizing family involvement, respect, and communal celebration.
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