Marriage Rights in Abavo Community, Delta State
Introduction
The Abavo community is a traditional and culturally rich community located in Ika South
Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. The people of Abavo are predominantly
farmers and traders, known for their peaceful lifestyle, communal values, and respect for
customs. The community practices a system of governance led by a traditional ruler known as
the Obi of Abavo, alongside elders and title holders who oversee cultural and social matters
(Okoh, 2019).
Marriage holds a very significant place in Abavo tradition. It is not just a union between a
man and a woman, but a bond that connects two families and strengthens community ties.
The people believe marriage contributes to family continuity, social status, and community
development. A married person is often seen as responsible and mature, and marriage is
considered a duty that every adult is expected to fulfill (Eze, 2020).
Marriage Process in Abavo Community
Marriage Arrangements and Traditional Rites: The process of marriage in Abavo begins
with family introductions, locally known as "Iku aka," where the groom’s family visits the
bride’s family to declare their intentions. This is followed by the bride price negotiation,
where both families agree on a list of items and a sum of money that the groom’s family must
provide. The items often include drinks, wrappers, food items, and other traditional gifts.
After the bride price is settled, the families set a date for the traditional marriage ceremony,
which involves cultural rites such as blessing the couple, traditional dances, and public
declarations of the union. These rites symbolize the acceptance of the couple by both families
and the larger Abavo community (Okoh, 2019).
Approval and Rejection of Marriage: In Abavo community, marriage is seen as a family
and communal affair, so it requires the approval of the bride’s and groom’s families. The
parents and elders of both families have the final say in approving or rejecting a marriage
proposal. A marriage can be rejected if there are unresolved family conflicts, health concerns,
or if the background of the intending spouse is questionable.
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Additionally, some traditional beliefs and restrictions may prevent certain marriages, such as
marrying within forbidden lineages or families with known disputes. The Obi of Abavo or
elders may also intervene in special cases to ensure peace and cultural continuity (Eze, 2020).
Rights of the Bride and Groom in Abavo Community
Rights, Responsibilities, and Gender Roles: In the Abavo community, both the bride and
groom are expected to enjoy mutual respect and carry out specific responsibilities within the
marriage. After marriage, the bride has the right to be treated with dignity, provided for by
her husband, and protected within the marriage. She is also expected to support her husband
in managing the home, raising children, and participating in communal activities (Okoh,
2019).
The groom, on the other hand, has the right to loyalty, respect, and support from his wife. He
is traditionally regarded as the head of the family, responsible for providing for the
household, making major decisions, and representing the family in community matters.
Inheritance rights traditionally favor male children, but wives and daughters are entitled to
maintenance and support, especially after the death of a husband (Eze, 2020).
Gender roles in Abavo marital life are clearly defined by tradition. Men are generally seen as
providers and protectors, while women handle domestic responsibilities and childcare.
However, modern influences and education have gradually shifted some of these roles, as
women now also engage in business and other income-generating activities (Okoh, 2019).
Customary Laws and Restrictions in Abavo Marriage
Marriage Laws, Polygamy, Divorce, and Widowhood: The Abavo community operates
under customary marriage laws, which include several traditional restrictions. For instance, it
is forbidden for individuals to marry within their close family lineages, as marriages between
blood relatives are considered taboo. Additionally, age restrictions exist where both parties
are expected to be of mature and responsible age before marriage is approved (Eze, 2020).
Polygamy is traditionally accepted in Abavo, especially among wealthy or titled men. A man
may marry more than one wife, provided he can fulfill the marital, financial, and social
responsibilities required for each household. Each wife is entitled to her rights and is
expected to be treated fairly by the husband (Okoh, 2019).
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Divorce is permissible but not encouraged, as it is believed to bring dishonor to families.
When it occurs, the bride price is often returned to the groom’s family, and custody of
children is typically negotiated based on age and circumstances. Widows are traditionally
expected to mourn their husbands, and in some cases, may be inherited by a male relative of
the deceased to ensure the care of the widow and her children. However, modern beliefs and
legal systems have started to challenge and reshape these practices (Eze, 2020).
Modern Influence
In recent years, modern laws, Christianity, and social changes have influenced marriage
rights and practices in Abavo community. Many young couples now prefer court and church
weddings alongside traditional rites, giving legal recognition to marriages. Christian
teachings have also reduced the practice of polygamy and certain widowhood customs,
promoting monogamy and gender equality in marriage (Okoh, 2019). Additionally, modern
laws protect the rights of women and children, ensuring fair inheritance and discouraging
forced or underage marriages (Eze, 2020). These influences have gradually reshaped
traditional practices while still preserving key cultural values.
Conclusion
Marriage rights in Abavo community remain an essential part of preserving cultural identity,
family unity, and social order. Through traditional marriage customs, families are bonded,
values are passed on, and communal harmony is maintained. Although modern laws and
religion have introduced new ideas, they have largely worked alongside traditional beliefs to
create a balanced system that respects both cultural heritage and individual rights (Okoh,
2019). This blending of tradition and modernity continues to strengthen the Abavo
community.
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References
Eze, C. (2020). Traditional Marriage Customs in Delta State: A Cultural Overview. Asaba:
Delta Heritage Press.
Okoh, I. (2019). The People of Abavo: History and Cultural Practices. Benin City: Royal
Heritage Publishers.
