Port Harcourt witnessed an emotional and culturally rich reunion as the Esan and Kalabari communities came together after 27 years for a traditional marriage ceremony between the families of Iyamabo and Datubo.
The event, steeped in heritage and symbolism, brought together relatives, friends and an international mix of guests to celebrate the union of Fred Iyamabo and Victoria Datubo. The ceremony opened with the Igbe Finji (box opening), where items brought by the groom for his bride were inspected by the women of the bride’s family. This was followed by the Bibi Fe (buying of the mouth), a cherished Kalabari tradition in which both families shared specially prepared native dishes.
As custom dictates, the bride maintained a solemn expression throughout, smiling only when all marital expectations were confirmed to be met. Victoria’s radiant smile eventually broke through, greeted by cheers of approval from her family.
Chairman of the occasion, Prince Tonye T.J.T Princewill, brother-in-law to the groom, highlighted the deeper significance of the ceremony, stressing that the union symbolised a bond not just between two individuals, but between two communities. He recalled that 27 years earlier, his own family had performed a similar ceremony in Benin when he married his wife, Rosemary. It was in his London residence that the new couple had first met, unaware of the future awaiting them.
Victoria, fondly nicknamed Sandisco by the late King, possibly for her dancing talents, is also a cousin of Prince Princewill.
After the rites, guests were treated to cultural music, prayers led by Deacon George Betts, and the cutting of the cake. The bride’s family was represented by her older sister, Mrs Eva Dagogo Princewill, and brothers Eddy Datubo, Will Datubo and Henry Datubo. The groom’s family was led by their matriarch, Mrs Flora Iyamabo, accompanied by his siblings Caroline Ademiluyi, Elizabeth Uwaifo, Rita Odutola, Florence Iyamabo, Rosemary Princewill, Regina Jemide and Victor Iyamabo.
Compered by Barr Adaye Duke and Chief Daogigo Amachree, the celebration continued into the early hours with guests enjoying vibrant music, dancing and a serving of popular local favourites including boli and fish.
