Iria marriage

Iria marriage is a festival celebrated by the Ijaw ethnic group in Rivers State, Nigeria.^[1] It is a significant cultural event that marks the transition of a girl into womanhood within the Ijaw community. The festival is primarily observed in the Ibani Kingdom, located in the Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State.^[2]

The Iria marriage ceremony is considered a rite of passage for young girls as they reach puberty and begin to mature physically. Prior to this stage, a girl child runs naked around the neighborhood, but once she reaches the age of puberty, her parents acquire a wrapper for her. The presentation of this wrapper to the girl marks a special day and is celebrated with great enthusiasm.^[3][4]

The festival consists of three stages, each corresponding to different age groups:^[5]

1. Kala-Egerebite: The Kala-Egerebite stage is designated for girls aged between 12 and 15. On the day of the ceremony, the girls wear a single wrapper known as SUU on their chest, along with light beads as adornments.
2. Opu-Egerebite: This stage is meant for young ladies aged between 18 and 21, as well as those slightly older. During the Opu-Egerebite ceremony, the young women tie a waist wrapper called Ikaki, along with popo and damask fabrics, paired with matching blouses.
3. Bibite: The Bibite stage is reserved for women aged 40 and above. In this stage, the women wear traditional garments such as the intorica George wrapper and the lili-inji wrapper. The Bibite stage holds the highest level of honor and respect within the Iria marriage ceremony in Bonny, and it receives special attention and reverence.