Ex-Governor Celebrates Love, Partnership, and Lifelong Bonds
By Okechukwu Nwaneri
Former Governor of Imo State, Dr. Ikedi Ohakim, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, chaired the wedding reception of Barrister Emmanuel Opiah and his bride, Barrister (Mrs.) Asuefai Opiah, in Abuja.
The choice of Dr. Ohakim as chairman was seen as deeply symbolic, reflecting his long-standing relationship with the Opiah family. Rt. Hon. Goodluck Opiah, father of the groom and former Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly (2007–2011), worked closely with Dr. Ohakim during his tenure as governor. Together, they championed reforms and established key institutions such as the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ISOPADEC), the Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO), and the Imo Road Maintenance Agency (IROMA).
In his remarks, Dr. Ohakim congratulated the couple and prayed for their future.
“Marriage is a covenant built on love, respect, and mutual understanding. I have no doubt that Emmanuel and Asuefai will journey through life with strength and grace. I wish them a fruitful union and God’s abundant blessings,” he said.
The reception was graced by an impressive gathering of political leaders, business executives, and security professionals. Notable guests included former Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Mbama Okiro; Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi; Major N.D. Eze (U.S. Special Forces, rtd.); Captain Bishop C. Johnson (SW/AW) U.S. Army, rtd., who also serves as Director General of Bring Back Ohakim 2027; retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Kentus Obiye; and Engr. Louis Okereke, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Bring Back Ohakim 2027. Several serving and retired officers from the military and police were also in attendance.
Beyond the joy of marriage, the occasion underscored enduring bonds of friendship and loyalty between Dr. Ohakim and the Opiah family—a relationship rooted in shared service and a common vision for the progress of Imo State and its people.
