ABIA – Governor Alex Otti has urged newly married couples to approach marriage with patience, understanding and a strong sense of responsibility, cautioning against treating divorce as the immediate solution to marital challenges.
Governor Otti gave the charge on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at the St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Amakama, in Umuahia South LGA, during the solemnization of holy matrimony between Miss Chidinma Onuoha, daughter of the Anglican Bishop of Arochukwu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Johnson Onuoha, and Emmanuel Ochigbo.
Governor Otti, represented by his Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described marriage as a serious responsibility that requires commitment, sacrifice and the willingness of couples to work through difficult seasons together.
“Do not rush into marriage only to run to court. Marriage is a journey. You start from courtship, you get married, and then you begin to face the real responsibilities of life,” Otti said.
He noted that the realities of marriage become more demanding as couples begin to raise children, make decisions about their careers and plan their future together, stressing that such responsibilities require patience and mutual understanding.
“Many people want to enjoy where they have lost their soul, and today you see a lot of people running away from responsibilities,” the governor said, urging the couple to remain faithful to their marital vows and confront challenges together.
The State Chief Executive further encouraged Emmanuel and Chidinma to cultivate the patience and commitment necessary to sustain their union, noting that the fulfilment of marriage lies in successfully navigating its responsibilities as partners.
In his sermon, the Bishop of Evo Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Innocent Oduh, charged the couple to remain faithful to their vows and avoid seeking affection outside their marriage.
He emphasised that marriage requires maturity, faithfulness and commitment, rather than an expectation of a life devoid of difficulties.
In his speech, the father of the bride, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Johnson Onuoha, expressed gratitude to God for the successful ceremony and appreciated Governor Otti for his support and presence at the occasion.
The wedding ceremony was attended by government officials and church leaders from Abia, Kogi and Benue States, including former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Rt. Hon. Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, and the Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, the Rt. Rev. Dr Geoffrey Ibeabuchi, among others.
