Bride Price Trap: How Families Block Abused Wives from Legal Freedom

Bride price is often called a symbol of respect, but in many rural communities it becomes a trap for women in abusive marriages. Families demand a refund before a woman can leave—even when she faces violence and marital rape. There is no law in Nigeria that gives families the power to veto a woman’s divorce or exit from marriage. Yet this illegal practice persists. Women share stories of fathers chasing ex‐in‐law families for months just to secure her freedom. Under the Nigerian Constitution and federal statutes, every person has the right to dignity, personal liberty, private family life, and freedom from discrimination. Marriage and divorce are resolved by the courts. No bride price refund is required for a lawful divorce. Customs that demand repayment before release have been ruled void by Nigerian courts. Any attempt to enforce them is unconstitutional and criminal. Women can file for divorce and walk away today without asking for anyone’s permission.

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