VDM’s Calls For Ban On Bride Price In Nigeria Sparks Online Debate

Nigerian media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has sparked widespread debate online after calling for the abolition of bride price in Nigeria, arguing that the tradition contributes to the objectification and mistreatment of women in marriage.

VDM questioned the cultural practice, stating that some men interpret the payment of bride price as a form of ownership over their wives.

According to him, this mindset has led to situations where women are treated as property rather than equal partners in marriage.

He also criticised parents who, in his view, treat bride price as a means of “selling” their daughters, noting that the practice is sometimes exploited for financial gain. He further pointed out what he described as an ironic trend, claiming that families with fewer financial resources often demand higher bride prices, while wealthier families tend to ask for less.

Using a personal example, VDM revealed that bride price in his community is as low as five thousand naira, questioning how such a token amount could justify control or dominance over a woman.

He stressed that bride price does not reflect a woman’s upbringing, education, values, or personal development.

VDM maintained that marriage should not be transactional and reiterated that paying bride price does not make a woman a man’s property.

His remarks have generated mixed reactions on social media. While some users praised him for challenging what they view as a harmful cultural practice, others defended bride price as a symbolic tradition meant to honour families rather than commodify women.

The conversation continues to trend across social platforms, with many Nigerians re-examining the cultural, social, and ethical implications of bride price in contemporary society.

Source: The Nation

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