The picturesque community of Umuokogbuo came alive on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the Obi family home as Amarachi Nkemdi Obi, daughter of Dr Rufus Obi, wed her partner Seun Olowe in a vibrant Igbo Traditional Mariage Ceremony known as Igba Nkwu, meaning “wine carrying.” The joyful union not only celebrated their love but also showcased the rich cultural heritage of Igbo traditions, bringing together family, friends, and well-wishers in a festive atmosphere filled with happiness.
The ceremony, which holds significant importance in Igbo culture, blended traditional customs with modern festivities, drawing notable figures from across the region. Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr Alex Chioma Otti, graced the occasion with his blessings for the couple, underscoring the communal nature of marriages in Igbo land. “I advise those of us who are close to them to give them space”. To the couple; “Many challenges in marriage comes from outside so don't involve third parties. God will bless your union and give you the resources to take care of your children,” he stated during his address.
Adding to the prominence of the event was the presence of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, who served as the chairman of the ceremony. He emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage, commending the union as a celebration of love intertwined with rich customs. “The last time I witnessed a wedding where the governor was present was 39 years ago,” he reflected, highlighting the rarity of such an occasion.
The ceremony commenced with the traditional breaking of kola nut, a ritual symbolizing peace and unity, performed by Ihejirika, setting a tone steeped in tradition. Esteemed guests included Fomer First Lady of Rivers State, Her Execellency, Dame (Dr) Judith Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi,
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Port Harcourt, Distinguished Senator MAO OHUABUNWA who represented Abia North Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly along with other politicians such as former Abia State PDP Chairman, Senator Emmanuel Nwaka and Mayor Chinedu Ekeke, the Mayor of Isuikwuato Local Government Area, AVM Chinwendu Onyike, Immediate Past Mayor of Isuikwuato.
Their participation illustrated the broad support from political leadership for the couple's union.
Barrister Ikechukwu Uwanna the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice was also present, adding to the esteemed guest list that underscored the significance of the event in the local community. Prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Kenneth Ahia, along with senior stakeholders and councillors, emphasized the collective celebration of love and commitment that transcends individual differences.
Guests enjoyed the blend of festive attires; they were treated to a feast of local delicacies, traditional music and dance, actively taking part in the customs associated with the Igba Nkwu ceremony. The bride, Amarachi, joyfully demonstrated her readiness to commit to her new role as a wife by carrying the ceremonial wine, a significant moment that was received with applause.
The Obi family welcomed Seun Olowe into their fold, affirming the notion of family unity that is central to Igbo culture. Amarachi and Seun shared their first dance as a married couple, which was met with cheers and applause from the guests. The couple expressed their joy and gratitude to everyone who gathered to celebrate this significant milestone in their lives.
Both the bride and groom shared their heartfelt sentiments about their journey together. In an interview with CEOAFRICA, Seun reflected on their four-year relationship, saying, “We met through a mutual friend, and I knew she was the one because I was so attracted to her. What really got my attention was her beauty, sense of humor, kindness, and love for God. I look forward to a lifetime of happiness with her.
“Coming from a different tribe isn't a problem for me; the personality is all that matters. I'm grateful for my family for being supportive; she's learning the language already and understands the culture. I also want to thank everyone for coming to grace our occasion, and I wish you all journey mercies to your destinations."
Amarachi echoed her husband's feelings, describing Seun as a kind and gentle person. “I’m really glad about us coming together. I have fallen in love with his heart and the way he treats people around him. I am super-excited for the journey ahead, and I know that God will see us through.”
The couple received warm and encouraging remarks from their families. Dr. (Mrs) Omobolanle Olowe, the groom's mother, expressed her deep gratitude, stating, “I thank God for choosing Amarachi for my son. She’s my daughter, not just my daughter-in-law, and God will bless their union.” Similarly, the bride’s mother, Dr. (Mrs) Onyinye Rufus Obi, shared her pride, emphasizing the importance of love in this inter-tribal marriage. “Peace is what I desire for them. They love each other, and that is all that matters,” she said.
Dr. Obi also extended her gratitude to Governor Otti for attending the occasion and praised the efforts he has made for the state. “I thank my friends and family that came from far and wide. Their union will be fruitful, and they will never lack.”
It is worthy of note that the construction of road to & through the communities (Amuta-Umuokogbuo-Umuobiala road) and the construction of Solar Powered School Block by Federal Ministry of Education at the Uporoto Community Primary School were attracted by Dr ( Mrs) Onyinye Rufus Obi
Miss Deborah Osuji, a close friend of the bride, spoke with admiration about Amarachi’s character. “Amarachi is an intelligent woman. She’s very independent and compassionate; she understands her husband. Union is all about balance,” she remarked. Deborah offered practical advice for a successful marriage, stating, “My advice is that she has to respect her husband, listen to him, and the husband should love her, trust her, treat her well, and make her happy. They should always put God first.”
The groom’s sister, Miss Victoria Omobolanle Olowe, echoed similar sentiments about the significance of understanding and empathy in relationships. “I’m glad my brother is with someone that understands him. She’s nicer to him than I am, even! She’s nice to me and the family,” Victoria expressed. Wishing the couple all the best, she added, “I wish them more love, happiness, and prosperity.”
The couple’s union gained further blessings from family relatives, including Mrs. Ezenwa- the bride’s aunt, who expressed her best wishes for Amarachi and Seun. “I wish them all the best. Amarachi is the first granddaughter of the family, so we cannot but wish her happiness. Their union will be an example of a blessed marriage. Marriages like this bring hope of continuing unity in Nigeria, the coming together of Osun and Abia State,” she remarked.
Engineer Chief Chinedubem emphasized the importance and potential of inter-tribal marriages in fostering unity among Nigeria’s diverse communities. “Being an intertribal marriage is a good thing, and that is what we want to encourage because it will help develop this country where ethnicity is no longer an issue. I advise the couple to cherish and value their love; they should forget about third parties and grow their love,” he advised.
As the sun set on this momentous day, the union of Amarachi and Seun shone brightly—a testament to love, tradition, and the promise of a future built on shared values and heritage. The ceremony not only celebrated their romance but also served as a reminder of the richness of Igbo customs and the vibrancy of community life in Abia State. Amidst the traditional music and cultural displays, the ceremony was a reminder of the strength found in unity and the power of love to transcend ethnic boundaries. As Amarachi and Seun embark on this new chapter of their lives, the encouragement from their loved ones serves as a strong foundation for a united future, rooted in mutual respect, love, and companionship. The warmth and joy of the day highlighted how love can bridge divides and create lasting bonds within families and communities.
