Former presidential aide and social commentator, Reno Omokri, has stirred national debate following his recent controversial statement asserting that only virgins deserve to have bride price paid on their behalf.
Speaking via his verified social media platforms, Omokri, who is known for his outspoken and often polarizing views on morality, religion, and culture, stated:
“The whole concept of bride price is rooted in virginity. That is why it is paid. Once virginity is no longer present, bride price becomes a misplaced cultural tradition. It should only apply where the woman is a virgin.”
The comment, which has since gone viral, triggered intense backlash and conversation across gender rights groups, cultural advocates, and social media users, many accusing the former aide of promoting outdated, misogynistic, and discriminatory views that reduce women’s worth to their sexual history.
Women’s rights organizations, including the African Women’s Empowerment Forum (AWEF), condemned the statement, calling it “a dangerous narrative that reinforces patriarchal oppression and strips women of dignity based on arbitrary standards.”
In response to the criticism, Omokri defended his position, claiming it was based on “cultural authenticity and Biblical morality,” and urged critics to “understand tradition before trying to modernize it.”
The debate has reignited conversations around gender equality, the cultural relevance of bride price in contemporary society, and the need to address societal expectations placed disproportionately on women.