Traditional wedding is an African theatrical display of Romeo and Juliet. Only that, it is a jolly affair embedded with deep symbolic actions and symbolic gifts too.
However, going to make known ones intentions bearing gifts to the bride’s family is one, discussing the time the main event
will take place is another inclusive of the list given to the groom’s family to provide at the next meeting.
So the main traditional union of boy meets girl that seals the deal between these two, called Igbankwu, for the Igbo’s
or Fitihah in Hausa and Igbeyawo in Yoruba. It is here that the disparity begins to arise.
For the Yoruba Wedding
Igbeyawo just like others is done with deep-rooted meaning and calculated intention. The engagement for the Yoruba
is an essential part of the union which is mostly spearheaded by the Alaga taking the role of the MC with her poise
and sense of humor she drives the smooth running of the event being a traditional custodian to ensure that
all is done in the right manner.
Like dance drama with lots of symbolic actions in between the entrance of the groom begins the rich cultural display
as he dances in flanked by his friends as they all humbly prostates in respect and honor before his in-laws then
the second prostrate he does alone which comes with showers of prayers from his in-laws.
The Yoruba mode of tradition is stagy in every way, like sitting down and watching a live performance at the theatre as
two love birds become one. You have the writing of letter by the groom to the bride which is read out for all to hear
as well as the bride ready with her response in form of a letter too, these actions are done by delegates from
the bride and grooms family.
For the Igbo Wedding
The Yoruba and the Hausa brides have semblance with having the bride’s face veiled and is later unveiled
at the right time during the ceremony by the appropriate persons, a system that is not done by the Igbo’s at
“Igba nkwu”. But the dramatic display of the Igbankwu is mainly with the bride seeking her groom;
she graciously dances to the delight of her guests as she carries palm wine in a gourd cup in search of
her husband in the crowd while having other eligible bachelors trying to draw her attention their way.
The gods of the land are present in spirit and are represented through the Umunna who come out in mass
to give out their daughter in marriage.
More Wedding Tradition
The use of Asoebi; a borrowed Yoruba word is used to coordinate colors at the event and to differentiate
the bride’s family from the groom’s family. It is a colorful coordinated traditional attire worn by families and friends.
The listed ethnic groups all adopt this color scheme pattern in their arrangement especially white which has found its
way in the heart of many Yoruba wedding settings accompanied though by other colors. Another is the list.
Everyone has a list from the bride’s family.
This can be monetized if need be and can also be bargained. The list includes foods items and drinks with the
list varying from one tribe to another. The Yorubas’ have on their list a fruit basket for the bride with the
significant presence of the pineapple with represents patience and resilience. While the Igbos cannot
begin their celebration without the breaking of the kola nut as it is said “he who brings kola nut brings life”.
Do you know that the disparity does not end at the traditional union of the bride and groom? As for the Igbos who are
known for Omugwo, this tradition juxtaposes the Yoruba’s belief as the groom’s mother is the one who takes care of
her daughter-in-law after when she gives birth unlike the case of Igbo customs.
For the Hausa Wedding
Yet again the Igbo and Yoruba are more exorbitant to arrange for the elaborate nature of both whereas the
Hausa is oftentimes simple and easier to handle though theirs is primarily guided by the principles of Islam.
Interestingly, the exchange of vows is done by proxy and not by the bride and grooms themselves.
Perfume is an element used by the Hausas’ which does not feature at Igbankwu or Igbeyawo.
The traditional wedding is a test of the man’s capability to take care of his wife and family and family which
many of the gifts showered and the actions carried out metaphorically represent.
By Taiyelolu A
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