Chuka Nduneseokwu, a writer based in the southeast region of Nigeria, has advised Igbo men to avoid court marriages.
Nduneseokwu, the founder and editor-in-chief of Voice Of The Sun TV, a Nnewi-based media outfit, said the essential part of marriage is the traditional rites.
He urged Igbo men to be wary of court marriages, adding that they are unnecessary.
He further said times have changed, and Igbo grooms must avoid falling into the trap of modernity.
However, he noted that those planning to travel abroad with their spouse can proceed with a court wedding because it is part of the visa requirements.
His words:
”Dear unmarried Igbo man, avoid “court marriage” at all costs. Pay your wife’s dowry, do traditional marriage, and go home. Times have changed. And the Igbo man must use his head in what he agrees to.
”For those who plan on going abroad, by all means, do the court marriage.”
In Igbo land, many see traditional marriage as the most crucial part of a wedding.
The traditional ceremony in the southeast is called Igbankwu, or wine carrying, because it involves the bride carrying a cup of palm wine to her groom.
Culturally, there are enormous indispensable elements in the Igbo marriage process, e.g., the payment of the bride price and the procurement of parental consent.
