Marriage Steps and Practices among the Afikpo-Igbo Clan of Ebonyi State

The institution of marriage occupies a central position among social institutions, serving as a fundamental mechanism for the perpetuation of human society through the regulation of conjugal and filial relationships. Across cultures and historical periods, marriage has assumed diverse forms and practices. This study examined the steps and practices of marriage among the Afikpo-Igbo clan of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The research adopted a qualitative approach, drawing primarily on insider knowledge and complemented by secondary sources, including books, academic journals, newspaper articles, and other relevant literature on marriage practices in Igboland. The findings revealed that marriage practices among the Afikpo people have undergone significant historical transformations. These range from an earlier unregulated phase— characterised by varying and sometimes excessive demands for yams and other marriage items by parents, to a more standardised system marked by agreed and uniform quantities and sizes of yams presented as part of the bride price. The study concluded by advocating a dynamic approach to marriage practices, emphasising the need to recognise marriage and family as foundational units of society. It further recommended periodic review and modification of marriage rites and procedures by Afikpo elders and the ruling council, to ensure alignment with evolving social realities and best practices in other progressive societies.