I Cancelled Our Traditional Marriage Date Over a ₦1.4m Marriage List: Was I Wrong?
My pregnant girlfriend moved in with me late last year. When we found out about the pregnancy in May, we agreed that I should meet her family and begin marriage arrangements, even though money is tight. During my first visit to her family in Lagos, I was asked to pay ₦42,000 for not bringing wine. I explained that I had only come to introduce myself, not to pay the bride price, but I eventually paid ₦20,000. They later gave me a three-page traditional marriage list which I estimate will cost about ₦1.4 million, including drinks, goats and other items. I asked for the list to be reduced or converted to cash. I was initially told this was possible, so I fixed a date and informed my family. Later, I was told the village insisted on every item. My mother-in-law then proposed a caterer costing ₦850,000 for fewer than 35 guests, plus a DJ, MC, decorations and canopies, despite my plan for a simple family gathering. I feel my girlfriend knew about these plans but did not tell me. I have cancelled the date because I cannot afford these demands, but she is upset and has refused to eat. Her brother has also asked me to send money for items on the list. Was cancelling the date too harsh, or am I right to insist on a wedding within my means?
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.