A Nigerian man residing in the UK has called off his engagement after being presented with a traditional bride price list amounting to N3.5 million by his fiancée’s family. The list, which included various items such as drinks, livestock, clothing, and cash gifts for extended family members, sparked heated debates on social media about cultural practices and their impact on relationships.
The story, shared by social media user Princess Adeola on her X handle, revealed that the man had been deeply committed to his long-distance relationship. He had plans to bring his fiancée to the UK and sponsor her education, but he was heartbroken to find that she fully supported her family’s demands.
In his frustration, the man described the bride price list as excessive, likening it to “selling a child.” He questioned how a marriage could thrive under such financial pressure, adding that his plans to invest in his fiancée’s future should have been more valued than the monetary expectations of her family.
Princess Adeola recounted the situation in her post, writing, “There’s this guy on my platform who met a lady here in Nigeria while he’s in the UK. Despite the challenges of a long-distance relationship, he was committed to her. He even sought my advice, and I encouraged him to go for it.”
“But yesterday, he reached out to me, distraught, after receiving a bride price list from her family totaling N3.5 million. His pain wasn’t just about the cost but the fact that the woman he loves supports her family’s demands, citing the high cost of living in Nigeria.”
The man, overwhelmed with disappointment, told Princess Adeola he had decided to end the relationship. “Why should anyone demand such an outrageous amount just for marriage? Doesn’t that set the tone for the man to treat her like he ‘bought’ her? It’s a shame, and I hope women learn from this,” Adeola wrote.
She continued, “This man had genuine plans to take her abroad and pay for her education. Now, because of greed, the family has lost a good man. He told me he plans to cry, heal, and move on with his life. I feel bad for the lady—if only she had a more understanding family and stood up for herself. She’s about to lose a good man without even knowing it.”
The story has sparked widespread reactions online, with many questioning the sustainability of bride price traditions and their potential to harm relationships.
Sourced from Vanguard Nigeria and published by WINS Media Ghana – Sharing stories that matter.
