Everyone introduces themselves, and then a representative from the bride’s family (mostly females, either a sister or cousin) reads a letter about the proposal. If approved, they give the groom’s family a letter saying yes. The audience then prays for them.
The Grooms’ entry
The groom dances inside with his friends. He makes four prostrations after he enters with a few of his friends, in front of his in-laws. He makes his four rounds of prostrations—twice with his friends and once alone, in front of his new in-laws. Both families extend their arms in prayer for him while he’s prostrating. Finally, he makes his last prostration before his relatives and sits down.
The bride’s entry
The bride, covered in a veil, enters with her bridesmaids or friends. It’s tradition for her to dance and show her happiness. She kneels first before her parents who bless her, then proceeds to kneel before the groom’s parents who do the same. After the unveiling of her face by her in-laws, she joins her soon-to-be husband, kneels again, and they are both blessed. The groom then gives her money, lifts her for everyone to see, and she places his cap on his head. This cap-placing signifies she accepts his proposal.
Culled from Guardian News Nigeria
