By Emeka Nwokocha
Dignitaries from all walks of life on Sunday 27 December, stormed Omotshola crescent to grace Miss Akpewe Okonedo’s marriage introduction ceremony with fanfare.
The groom, Mr. Irikefe Essi, a chubby young man, accompanied by a retinue of family members and friends, walked elegantly into the bride’s family’s house to commence the marriage introduction in line with the unique Urhobo culture.
The bride’s family comprised of eminent personalities which included Mr. Fredrick Okonedo, the bride’s eldest brother who played the role of the bride’s father, Mr. Mathias Okonedo (of blessed memory) while the bride’s uncle, and aunty, Mr. Nelson Okonedo, and Dame Esther Eguegu, led the family members to ensure a hitch free occasion. Also, Mr. Fredrick’s younger brother, Mr. Ogheneruemu Okonedo was conspicuously present at the occasion.
The occasion started with prayers and the spokesman deployed his oratorical skills to ensure the occasion goes well in harmony with Urhobo culture. The bride’s family presented kola nuts, drinks and money to the groom’s family in a coordinated manner. The gesture was reciprocated by the groom’s family. This was followed by cogent discussion between the bride’s and the groom’s families as the Urhobo culture demands. The discussion went on successfully under a convival atmosphere as the spokesman competently and skillfully facilitated the process to the end.
Mr. Nelson Okonedo, prayed for the groom and bride and wished them success, even as he urged the groom, Mr. Irikefe to proceed with the traditional marriage and wedding ceremony as soon as possible, saying that Okonedo family looks forward to seeing it happen very soon.
Speaking to journalists at the occasion, Mr. Fred Okonedo, thanked God for making the occasion a successful one. He prayed for the “lovebirds” and implored them to proceed with the traditional marriage and wedding ceremony without delay in order to sustain the joy the occasion has ignited in Okonedo family.
In the same vein, Mr. Ogheneruemu Okonedo, expressed excitement and thanked God for His blessings upon Okonedo family. He congratulated his younger sister (the bride) and looked forward to the traditional marriage and wedding ceremony in days ahead.
The occasion attracted MC 2 talk, who unleashed a full doze of artistic and comedic skills to spice the occasion.
The highpoint of the occasion was ushering of the beautifully dressed bride into the arena. And the crowd was set aglow when she stepped out with the groom to dance to the rhythm of the music.
Guest at the occasion were treated to a sumptuous meal and assorted drinks.
Present at the occasion were Abdullahi kebiru and other Okonedo family members. Other dignitaries include Mr. Aminu Junaidu, son of the late Chief Imam of Delta State; and Mr. Christopher Asiodu.
