Love, they say, is everywhere, and the story of love in the creek between the groom, Mr. Mark Imoun, a native of Benikrukru community in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, and his bride, Miss Evelyn Efram, who hails from Akpata community in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, finally climaxed into a marital union as the two love birds both tied the nuptial knot on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.

The marital union which was forged in love in the coastal settlement of Akpata, was witnessed not only by their families, friends and other well-wishers, but also by the abiotic elements of water, land, and air.

The groom had not only looked forward to his big day, the day he earns the subtle Ijaw marital title of zaé (pronounced zay, which means 'husband'), but in his determination to conquer love was prepared to cross many waters as he undertook the voyage from his abode in Benikrukru, like a sailor on an expedition trip, to the home of his beautiful bride.

As common with traditional marriage setting, the groom and his entourage, on arrival in Akpata community were welcomed by his in-laws (the families of Late Elder Efram & Mrs. Godwin Tuwatimi) and community elders, who entertained their August visitors in a show love as was peculiar with the lifestyle of the Ijaw people.

The groom and his families would reciprocate the kind gesture of their in-laws by offering them kola nuts, gin and other assorted drinks, waged with some hard currencies, while they also unveil the purpose of their visit to the assembly of men, women, and youths that had gathered for the occasion.

Thereafter, both families settled down to the bridal payment, an activity that involved the spokesmen from both families coordinating the exercise in an exchange, with that of the bride's family ensuring that all requirements needed from the groom have been met.

Then comes that special moment when the bride made her first entry into the venue to join the groom, and then the blessing session followed as the bride's fatherly representative rain down prayers of fertility, love, peace and prosperity upon the newly married couple.

With that ceremony done and dusted, Mr Imoun successfully demonstrated his manliness in paying the price to take for himself his Ayoro (wife in the Ijaw dialect) especially at a time of economic hardship associated with the high cost of transport in the maritime sector as transversing from the shores of Benikrukru in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State, to Akpata community in Ondo State, was no joke. But the powerful feeling of love made all the sacrifices he had made worthwhile as the joy he received is incomparable to none.

But the celebration is not ending just yet as the newly married couple planned, in tune with their faith, come 9:00am on Saturday, August 17, 2024, to officially perform their Solemnization of Holy Matrimony at the Church of God Mission in Benikrukru community, followed by a reception in the community's playground.

We at PENGlobal congratulate the newly married couple and commend their zeal to undertake and consummate their marital journey on their native soil.

Here are some photos capturing the ceremony: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/i2W2SBivbuYvyFLj/?mibextid=oFDknk

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