Abstract:

Marriage is not just a union between a man and a woman, it is a tie between two families and one in which traditional gifts are exchanged between the two families concerned. Although universally accepted, there is the problem of uniformity in the way marriage rites are conducted. This varies from community to community and even from country to country. In some communities, it is simple while in some others, it is complex. The purpose of this study is to find out the structure and peculiarity of betrothal or marriage rites in Onicha subculture area of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Interview and observation methods were employed for this study. The tomcat theory was used to analyze the concept of marriage. This study will apart from significantly adding to our rich cultural heritage, educate and encourage suitors from other parts of the world to engage in intertribal marriage which will assist to a large extent in fostering peace and unity among the people of Nigeria. It was found that the marriage structure in Onicha subculture area has remained basically the same. What differ are the rites and rituals involved in the marriage process. Novelties imported from other cultures also have both social and economic implications for young men of marriageable age. Government at all levels should legislate on what should be the standard marriage procedure to make marriage less expensive and more affordable to persons of marriageable age.