Tragedy struck in Benue State following the sudden death of Isaac Aondofa Atim, who died barely three days before his scheduled traditional marriage.
Atim was to wed Mercy Mbawuesẹ on December 13, 2025, according to the wedding invitation card earlier circulated among friends and family.
The traditional marriage ceremony was scheduled to hold at Branch u Kuhar, Abia Mbagba, Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The sudden death of the groom has thrown friends, associates, and family members into deep mourning, especially as preparations for the wedding were already in top gear.
Reacting to the news, a close friend described the late Atim as more than a companion.
“The pain is still sinking in.
Isaac Aondofa Atim was more than a friend to me; he was a brother and a roommate.
“We shared laughter, tears, and dreams. His energy lit up every room, and his smile could brighten the darkest day. Losing him just days before his wedding is something I still cannot comprehend,” the friend said.
Another mourner lamented the painful timing of the tragedy, saying, “What was supposed to be their wedding day has now turned into deep mourning. The groom is no more, and the pain is unbearable. Rest in peace, Isaac Aondofa.”
A Facebook user said the loss was shocking, especially after recently seeing the wedding announcement online.
“I saw his wedding post and was genuinely happy for him. Then this news came. Why now? Was he sick? Just like that? God knows best. May his gentle soul rest in peace,” the mourner wrote.
Others said they were still struggling to process the loss.
“We are still living in shock over this sad news. It is hard to believe that someone we were preparing to celebrate is gone,” one associate said.
Another reaction read, “Oh my God, this is heartbreaking. This life is truly unpredictable. Please accept my condolences, and may God comfort his entire family during this painful time.”
A former course mate also questioned the sudden nature of the death.
“Jesus Christ. What really happened to my course mate and friend? This loss is too sudden. May his gentle soul rest with our Creator,” the mourner said.
While the circumstances surrounding Atim’s death remain unclear as of the time of filing this report, friends and loved ones continue to offer prayers and words of comfort, submitting to faith and calling for strength to bear the painful loss.
