Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The traditional ruler of Da Ogo Community in Buguma, Rivers State, Prince Tonye Princewill, has urged Nigerians to promote inter-ethnic marriages as a means of strengthening unity and peaceful coexistence across the country.
Princewill made the call yesterday in Port Harcourt during the traditional marriage ceremony between the Iyamabo family of Esan origin in Edo State and the Datubo family of the Kalabari Kingdom in Rivers State.
He stressed that inter-ethnic unions do not only unite two individuals but also create strong cultural bridges between their communities — something he described as essential for present-day Nigeria.
“The unity of the marriage is not just for the two individuals, but for both communities, which we need to see more and more of in present-day Nigeria,” he said.
The monarch, who is also a philanthropist and businessman, reflected on his own marriage 27 years ago, when he travelled with his family to Benin to marry his wife, Rosemary. He said personal experiences such as his remain proof that inter-ethnic marriages help reduce suspicion and promote mutual respect among Nigeria’s diverse groups.
Princewill further revealed that the newly wedded couple, Fred Iyamabo and Victoria Batubo — his cousin — first met unexpectedly at his residence in London, unaware of the future that awaited them.
Stone Reporters Observed that his call comes at a time when ethnic tensions and political divisions remain high across several parts of the country. The ceremony itself visibly demonstrated how cultural exchange can soften long-standing stereotypes.
It also noted that the warm interactions between guests from Edo and Rivers States at the event underscored the monarch’s argument that unity at the national level begins with relationships at the family and community levels.
The observation further supports the view that fostering inter-ethnic relationships could serve as a subtle but powerful tool for reducing social friction and promoting peaceful coexistence.
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