Bride Purchase
Institution of Marriage
Bride Purchase
Bride Purchase
Nigerian
Patriarchy
Nigerian cultural and religious beliefs promote patriarchy and the inferiority of women to men. Patriarchy guarantees gender inequality, allows, and encourages abuse as a norm of a woman’s life. The presence is visible throughout all of Nigeria and never denied (Bazza). Although many women dare not speak out about it, or contact the authorities, for fear of further inciting their abuser (Udobang). Independent human rights agencies and scientific testing verifies the extent of the problem. Abuse affects almost every aspect of a women’s life in Nigeria.
“Most countries and religions frown against domestic violence but because the cultures of the people of these cultures of the people of these countries do not frown at it, the problem has persisted (Ameh & Abdul 4-6).
Nigeria being such a traditional patriarchal society, the customs and culture practiced for generations are ongoing today. Meaning that the common patriarchal practices, including brides being bought by their husband are prevalent and practiced. (Eze-Anaba). Women are raised under the knowledge that men are superior and have the duty to please their husbands. While many societies refrain from patriarchy values through the desire for equality. The same can not be said for Nigeria. Due to Nigeria’s entrenched cultural and religious beliefs, patriarchy is seen to be the complete opposite of what the world’s majority believes. The idea of men being of greater value or superior to women contributes to the common idea that men can do as they please, or in other words, be abusive to their wife(s). Leaving women no reason to compete against men or have the confidence to work in public or learn the skills for high-level positions (Makama). For there to be progress in equality, a need to accept equality between women and men is primary.
What is Patriarchy?
A patriarchy society is one where the father or eldest male of the family is in charge of the family, has legal dependence of the wives, women, and children, and is inherited in the male line.
"The common patriarchal practices, including brides being bought by their husband are prevalent and practiced" (Eze-Anaba).