● Stephanie Daberechukwu
In a ceremony steeped in elegance, love, and cultural pride, Barrister Geraldine Chinemerem Uslor and Dr. Innocent Ogbu Ukpabi were joined in holy matrimony on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at the Holy Ghost Cathedral Parish, Ogui, Enugu. The grand occasion attracted a constellation of dignitaries, clergy, and well-wishers who came to witness and celebrate the beautiful union of two accomplished young professionals.
Officiated by Rev. Fr. Daniel Onah, the sacred rite was solemn, moving, and spiritually uplifting. In his homily, Fr. Onah charged the couple to anchor their union on faith, patience, and enduring love. “Marriage is not a destination but a divine journey,” he said. “Let Christ be your compass. As you grow in your professions, grow even deeper in your companionship and commitment to each other.”
Immediately following the nuptial mass, a grand reception held at Purgatorial Hall, within the same cathedral complex, transformed into a vibrant tapestry of culture, elegance, and celebration. Guests were ushered into an atmosphere alive with joy, music, gourmet cuisine, and heartfelt toasts.
Presiding over the reception as Chairman was none other than Nigeria’s former Minister of Power and Chairman/CEO of Geometric Power Group, Professor Bart Nnaji. In his remarks, Professor Nnaji praised the couple for their academic and professional accomplishments, describing the wedding as “a fusion of intellect and integrity.” Performing the traditional Igbo ritual of kola-nut breaking, he emphasized its cultural symbolism: “Kola-nut does not speak English. It speaks Igbo – and in Igbo, it speaks unity, family, and continuity. Today, we break kola in honour of a union that will blossom in wisdom and peace.”
R-L: Former deputy governor of Enugu State, Bishop Ifeanyi Nwoye; Chief Mike Onu, Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Lawrence Eze; Barrister Geraldine Ukpabi (bride); Dr. Innocent Ukpabi (groom); and Dr. Mrs. Eze Esq. atthe reception ground.
The toast to the couple was proposed by Dr. G.O.C. Ajah, former Secretary to the Enugu State Government, who spoke with poetic charm. “Geraldine and Innocent,” he said, raising his glass, “may your home be a sanctuary of laughter, your love an anthem of fidelity, and your future a glowing testament to divine favour. May the wine of your love never run dry.”
Adding a deeply personal tone to the celebration, Dr. Lawrence Eze, Enugu State Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, shared his fatherly joy at witnessing the wedding. “I feel very happy and grateful to God,” he told GMTNewsng. “Innocent is like a son to me, and today feels like watching my own child take a bold and beautiful step. My advice is that he should lead with love, respect, and responsibility. Let the affection he shares with his wife overflow to their children when they come.”
In a moment of heartfelt gratitude, Dr. Innocent Ukpabi, the groom, expressed appreciation on behalf of his bride and their families. “Today is beyond what we imagined. We are humbled by your love, your presence, your prayers. To our parents, friends, mentors, and all who travelled from near and far – thank you for honouring us. We pray God rewards your kindness abundantly.”
The bride, radiant in grace and confidence, is a barrister at law, while the groom is a scholar and academic doctor known for his brilliance and humility.
Among the prominent personalities in attendance were former Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Bishop Ifeanyi Nwoye, President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Enugu State chapter, Comrade Udoagha Ani, Chief Mike Onu, along with serving and past government functionaries, captains of industry, clergy, traditional leaders, and academics.
The wedding colours – white, black, gold, coral pink, and tinted yellow-blue- red adorned the venue, reflecting the couple’s refined taste and the elegance of the occasion. It was a day of joyful dancing, hearty laughter, and memorable bonding, sealing a love story destined for greatness.
As the sun set over the Enugu skyline, guests departed with hearts full of hope, convinced that this union – blessed in church, sealed in tradition, and celebrated in style – is one destined to endure. GMTNewsng
A cross-section of guests
Congratulations to the newest couple in town, you home is forever blessed Amen 🙏 💍💍💍❤️