In a recent Facebook post, Omokri clarified the distinction between dowry and bride price, noting that dowry refers to the property a bride receives from her parents, becoming joint property with her husband. In contrast, bride price is the property or money demanded by a bride’s family to give her away in marriage, applicable only when the bride is a virgin.
He cited Exodus 22:17 and Yoruba customs to support his claim, stating, "If her father absolutely refuses to give her to him, he must still pay the bride-price for virgins." Omokri also referenced the Lukumi Yoruba tradition, where virginity is confirmed by a white cloth used during consummation.
Omokri criticized practices where large sums are demanded in marriages involving non-virgins, arguing that such demands are extortionate. He backed his argument with scriptural references, highlighting that the Bible consistently associates the term “bride” with virginity.
While acknowledging that men can marry non-virgins, Omokri contended that such unions should not attract bride price. He warned of societal consequences if traditional values are not upheld, stating that moral decadence could lead to increased rates of sexually transmitted diseases.
Omokri also condemned the widespread practice of white weddings in Africa, arguing they are neither Christian nor African in origin. He asserted that white weddings are purely European traditional weddings.
His statements have sparked diverse reactions, with some supporting his perspective on the spiritual aspects of marriage, while others view his statements as controversial. The discourse highlights ongoing conversations about the moral and spiritual dimensions of the institution of marriage in African societies.
Note: The views expressed by Reno Omokri are his personal interpretations and have elicited varied responses from the public.
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