Dynamics of Forced Marriage in Igbo Society: Perspectives from Ụkpaka Mịịrị Onye Ụbịam

Abstract

In all societies, marriages are contracted based on the consent of the two principal partners. However, in some cases, a young man or woman may be forced into marrying someone they do not love for one reason or another. This study therefore examines the practice of forced marriage in Igbo society. This is to explore the basis of conflict, the underlying rationale, forms of coercion and effects of forced marriage on the individual concerned and the society. The Family Power Theory was used as a guide for the study. Tony Ubesie’s Ụkpaka Mịịrị Onye Ụbịam was purposively selected based on its thematic thrust on the subject matter. The result shows that the basis of conflict in the family of Nna Chinyere was that he wanted her daughter - Chinyere to marry a rich old man, named Emeodi against her own will, instead of a younger man named Amadi who did not have a good means of livelihood. The rationale for the father’s choice was friendship with Emeodi’s father, his daughter’s comfort, and the sacrifices he had made in the past to train her. The forms of coercion he used on his daughter Chinyere include bribery, his fate on retirement, disowning her daughter, and threats to die. The adverse effects of the practice were seen in Chinyere’s depression, shaming by her schoolmates, poor academic performance, withdrawal from society, and eventually her death. The novel exposes the wrong use of power in the family (in spousal selection) all for the interest of the holder, without consideration for the interest of the girl-child who is the prime target of marriage. It is recommended that, in matters of marriage and precisely spouse selection, the parents' input and guidance are required, but ultimately the son or daughter in question should be given ample freedom to make their choice, and not to be subjected to threats from parent(s).