By Joy Umo
The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, on Tuesday joined other dignitaries at the traditional marriage ceremony of Miss Sylvia Ekpenyong Oku Ita and Mr Francis Edem Bassey, the step son of the Governor of Cross River State. The colourful ceremony took place at the Hope Waddell Training Institution in Calabar.
The event attracted an array of high profile personalities including the Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu, the Deputy Governor, Rt Hon Peter Odey, and the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambem.
The Obong of Calabar, His Eminence Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, and his cabinet also graced the ceremony, adding a royal touch to the celebration.
Other notable guests included the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Anthony Enor, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Emmanuel Ironbar, serving and former members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, senior government officials and other distinguished personalities.
Senator Jarigbe was accompanied by Chief Igbe Aruku, Chief Timmy Tom, Hon Mike Usibe, Chief Thomas Odu, Mr John Asu and Royjones Akpak. In his goodwill message, he advised the couple to build a home anchored on love, mutual respect and understanding. He cautioned them against allowing external interference in their marriage and prayed for a peaceful and blissful union.
The ceremony featured rich cultural displays as family members, friends and well wishers gathered to celebrate the newlyweds. Many guests described the event as elegant, colourful and memorable.