Gathered in the hallowed hall of Delight Garden and Park, the traditional marriage formalities between Nsikan, daughter of DCM Nseobong Charles Akpabio of Ikot Akama Ibesit in Oruk Anam LGA of Akwa Ibom State, and Jemie, son of Dr. Felix & Mrs. Uzunma Nnanna of Amookwe Item, in Bende LGA of Abia State, took place.
Various personalities and dignitaries were introduced and accorded space at the high table, with Dr. Enobong Umoessien serving as the substantive chairman presiding over the function.
As per tradition, both parents were ushered into the hall to kickstart the marriage formalities. This was followed by an opening prayer.
Dr. Enobong Umoessien, the chairman of the occasion, in his opening remarks emphasized the significance of the event, highlighting the purpose of women in providing comfort to men.
He provided a clear picture, distinguishing between marriage and mere relationships. He prayed for a successful family life for the newlyweds and officially declared the marriage ceremony open.
The groom’s entry was accompanied by traditional chants by family members. This was followed by the presentation of kola nuts and other traditional items by the President of the Akwa Ibom Community, Barr. Aniefiok Ibah JP. This gesture was warmly received and acknowledged through a brief prayer by the groom’s family. The kola nuts were then shared according to tradition.
As the event began to gather momentum, Mrs. Ekpedeme showcased delicacies synonymous with Akwa Ibom culture, giving a glimpse of what the groom would enjoy in his new life.
This was shortly followed by the traditional rites of drink presentation by the family of the groom.
Now was the rigorous task of searching for the bride as tradition demands. This became so tedious as the groom almost got confused in the cause identifying his wife to be, hence, different pseudo presentations were made.
In the end, the bride’s entry was marked by Akwa Ibom lyrics, and the flair of her friends, in their dance steps captivated the audience.
In another development, the search for the groom by the bride added excitement to the event. The success of the bride being able to spot the husband to be, culminating in both couples being admonished by their parents before resuming their families.
The bride was formally handed over to the groom’s family, in the presence of dignitaries and God.
They were then declared husband and wife in a traditional manner.
The cutting of the cake as the first couple’s obligation marked the climax of the ceremony.
Ati Annang, Abuja branch, where the bride’s father acts as the Vice President was fully on ground to witness the ceremonial rites.
The celebration concluded with a dance gala, fostering a sense of camaraderie
