Marriage List and Bride price in Delta State — All you need to Know

 

Bride price, also known as dowry, is one of the oldest and most important customs in African marriage traditions. In Nigeria, it serves not only as a token of appreciation to the bride’s family but also as a formal seal of the marriage agreement. Without it, a union is not considered valid in the eyes of custom.

The Urhobo people of Delta State have preserved this age-old practice with pride, ensuring that each marriage follows due process rooted in respect and cultural identity. For young men planning to marry an Urhobo woman, it is essential to understand the requirements and expectations of the bride price list.

1. Family Entertainment

As a sign of goodwill, the groom’s family must double whatever refreshments or meals they are offered during their visits to the bride’s home. This symbolizes appreciation and respect for the hospitality of the bride’s family.

2. Items Required from the Groom

The groom is expected to provide specific items, which vary slightly across families and communities but generally include the following:

• Drinks & Beverages:

• 6 bottles of non-alcoholic wine

• 1 carton of fruit juice

• 6 bottles of alcoholic wine

• 2 crates of malt drinks

• 2 crates of soft drinks (minerals)

• Food Items & Essentials:

• 3 bags of salt

• 1 carton of soap

• 20 liters of palm oil

• 20 liters of palm wine

• A plate of kola nuts (a mix of native, ordinary, and bitter kola), accompanied by ₦2,000

• Monetary Gifts:

• Money for siblings: ₦5,000

• Money for youths: ₦1,500

• Money for women: ₦2,000

• Official bride price: ₦1,200

• “Unofficial” bride price (token of honor): ₦20,000

• Behind money for father: ₦10,000

• Behind money for mother: ₦7,000

• Excursion money for women (to “present the bride”): ₦3,000 (negotiable)

• Clothing & Gifts for Parents:

• For the bride’s mother: Head tie, blouse, wrapper, shoes, and handbag

• For the bride’s father: Cap, shirt, wrapper, walking stick, and shoes

• Other Gifts for the Bride:

• A full box of assorted clothing

• One bottle of pure honey

3. Presentation of Items

All items, including monetary gifts and parents’ clothing, must be presented before the marriage day. During the ceremony, the bride’s parents will be asked to confirm that they have been “settled.” Without this confirmation, the marriage rites cannot proceed.

4. Important Notes

• The list provided above is a general guideline. Bride price requirements vary depending on the family, community, and even the educational or social status of the bride.

• Negotiations are common, and some items or amounts may be adjusted to suit the groom’s capacity.

• The symbolic value of the bride price often outweighs the monetary aspect, as it represents respect, gratitude, and the bond between two families.

Conclusion

Marriage among the Urhobo people of Delta State is more than just a union between man and woman; it is a cultural rite of passage deeply tied to tradition. The bride price not only validates the marriage but also strengthens the ties between families and communities. For any groom seeking an Urhobo bride, understanding and respecting these customs is the first step toward a blessed and lasting marriage.