In many Western Igbo communities of Nigeria, traditional marriage ceremonies were once marked by a special cultural event known as "Ime-Nwagbọ", meaning the act of deflowering a maiden on her nuptial night.

This ceremony was a deeply respected tradition, often performed after a smaller welcoming event called "Idunụa-Nwunye", which officially introduced the bride to her husband’s home.
In some areas, this could take place immediately after the marriage or be delayed for up to three years after the bride price had been paid. This is because of another cultural permission that allows a married maiden the license to remain in her father's house for a period.

The Nuptial Night and the Symbolic "Akwa Ocha"

On the night of the couple’s first union, the bride is given a white native cloth called "Akwa Ocha" to lay on the marital bed. If she is still a virgin, the cloth would show blood stains after intercourse—a physical symbol that she was "met at home", a phrase used to describe a virgin bride.

After this act, the bride presents the cloth to her mother-in-law, who awaits outside with other married women and the bride’s parents. If the cloth is stained, the in-laws rejoice. The bride’s family is honoured, cowries are placed at the doorway, and celebratory songs fill the air.

Gifts and Gratitude

In recognition of the bride’s chastity, the husband gifts tubers of yam to the bride’s mother and a calabash of palm wine to her father. The bride also receives two pieces of Akwa Ọcha as a token of honour.

This tradition encouraged young women to remain virgins until marriage and brought pride to their families.

When the Cloth Is Not Stained

If no blood is found, it is believed the bride had previous sexual relations. She must return the cloth to her own mother, and her husband presents no yam to the in-laws—only a half-filled calabash of palm wine as a sign of disappointment.

Though no longer widely practised, the new bride traditionally had the right to return to her father’s house for a short time known as the "license period", now obsolete in modern marriages.

Why "Ime-Nwagbọ" Is Dying Out

Over time, this cultural practice has faded for many reasons:

1. Medical facts: Some women are born without a hymen, and others may lose it through physical activity—not necessarily sex.
2. Changing values: Some couples prefer to test fertility or sexual compatibility before marriage.
3. Education and career: Many delay marriage while pursuing education or a better life.
4. Cultural influence: Exposure to global cultures has changed perspectives on sexual purity.
5. Modern preferences: Some men want assurance through pregnancy before formalising marriage.

A Note on Pregnancy and Bride Price in Enuani

In traditional Enuani Igbo culture, bride price for a pregnant woman is not accepted. The marriage process is delayed until after childbirth. The husband must also provide a live goat to appease the family gods, symbolising a form of atonement.

Can a man be "met at home"?
Find out in our next article.

What are the marriage customs in your own community? Share your story with us.

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References

Ikem, E. A., & Anene, O. (2006). The Sociology of Ubulu-Uku. Enugu: Chenglo Limited.

Onwordi Ngozi Fortune, (2015). “Ime-Nwagbọ” Nuptial Nights on The Nuptial Night In Enuani: Facebook post