Lagos turns star-studded as Umahi’s niece, Shope Ayinde wed

..... As Umahi, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, Otti, Elumelu, others grace high-profile ceremony.

Lagos stood still for a colourful celebration of love and class on Saturday as Shekina Chidinma Umahi, niece of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, and Shope Alexandra Ayinde exchanged marital vows before a galaxy of political, business and social heavyweights.

The wedding, held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Powerlink Chapel, Lekki Phase 1, attracted governors, ministers, lawmakers, captains of industry, traditional rulers, statesmen and family members from across the country.

Among the high-profile guests were Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, who chaired the occasion; and the Minister of Works, David Umahi.

Businessman and Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Alison Madueke, and Professor Patrick Utomi were also among the distinguished guests.

Shekina, daughter of Maj.-Gen. (rtd.) Pastor Obi Abel Umahi, and Shope, son of Commodore NN (rtd.) Deacon Adebayo Abidemi Ayinde, were described by their parents as outstanding young people whose achievements had continued to make their families proud.

In his remarks as chairman of the occasion, Governor Otti counselled the couple to build their marriage on patience, understanding, tolerance and commitment.

The Abia governor, however, injected humour into his advice, joking that he would not be available to settle any future disagreement between the couple.

“I want to tell you in advance that I won’t be present and as such, I declare that this marriage is indissoluble,” Otti declared to laughter and applause from the guests.

The ceremony also witnessed a strong political representation, with Ebonyi Governor Francis Nwifuru, Enugu Governor Peter Mbah, Kogi Governor Usman Ododo, Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo and Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo represented by their deputies or senior officials.

The business community was equally well represented, with prominent figures including Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, Chairman of Orient Global Limited; Oliver Alawuba, Group Managing Director of UBA, represented by Chidi Okpara; Adebiyi Olalekan of Lorelei Construction Limited; Chief Ifeanyi Clement Okorie of Rock Results Group and Engr. Solomon Dacree in attendance.

The Works Ministry also turned out in force, led by the Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo. Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Allwell Onyesoh; Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi; and Director of Highways, Bridges and Designs, Engr. Musa Saidu, were among ministry officials who joined the celebration.

Adding a traditional touch to the festivities, the Umahi family formally welcomed the newlyweds with the presentation of family gifts by the Chairman of the Uburu Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Eze Laz Umahi.

The ceremony ended on a celebratory note, as family members, friends and dignitaries joined the newlyweds in prayers and goodwill for a happy, peaceful and enduring marriage.

See pictures from the event below