Manuscript Title:

CULTURAL DIFFERENTIALISM, CONTINUITY AND CHANGE IN THE MARRIAGE RITES OF THE KOKO PEOPLE OF DELTA STATE. 1950 2022

Author:

ODUNAYO D. ADELEKE, ALAO BUKOLA ADENIKE, AYANLOWO OLUWATOSINBLESSING, DEBORAH EBUNOLUWA ADEYOMOYE, ORJI BONIFACE IFEANYI, MOGBORUKO CHELSEA

DOI Number:

DOI:10.5281/zenodo.16925815

Published : 2025-08-23

About the author(s)

1. ODUNAYO D. ADELEKE - PhD, Department of History and International Studies, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
2. ALAO BUKOLA ADENIKE - PhD, Department of Political Science and Public Administration, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
3. AYANLOWO OLUWATOSINBLESSING - Department of History and International Studies, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
4. DEBORAH EBUNOLUWA ADEYOMOYE - PhD, Department of History and International Studies, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
5. ORJI BONIFACE IFEANYI - Department of History and International Studies, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.
6. MOGBORUKO CHELSEA - Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria.

Full Text : PDF

Abstract

Continuity and change in the marriage rites of the Koko people in Delta State, Nigeria, from 1950 to 2022. Koko town is located in a riverine area of Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, South-South Nigeria positioned off the busy Benin- Sapele thruway. The research explores how traditional practices have evolved over the decades in response to social, economic, and cultural shifts within the community. The study adopted the qualitative research method, the Historical Descriptive approach was utilized. Through a combination of oral histories, archival research, and participant observation, the study reveals a complex interplay between adherence to customary rites and the incorporation of modern influences. Key findings indicate that while core elements of the traditional marriage process, such as bride price and family negotiations, have persisted, there have been significant changes in the rituals and ceremonies, influenced by factors such as urbanization, education, and religious transformation. The research contributes to the broader discourse on cultural adaptation and resilience, highlighting the ways in which the Koko people navigate the balance between preserving their heritage and embracing contemporary practices.


Keywords

Continuity, Marriage, Globalization, Cultural Divergence.