Mercy Johnson & hubby Odi share their Sweet Love Story with Punch

Mercy Johnson and her husband Odi Okojie recently welcomed their 2nd child together, a baby boy named Henry. The superstar actress who returned to Nigeria a few weeks ago and Odi gave a detailed joint interview to Punch Newspaper’s Spice on Sunday. The couple delved into details of their relationship. You can read the complete interview via Punch Online.

See excerpts below

Love in the Air…How Mercy & Odi Met
Odi: I met Mercy for the first time in 2008 on a flight from France. We both flew Business Class and I asked for her number but she refused. She was very down-to-earth even as a celebrity. I know how a lot of them behave but she is different. Being very focused and a go-getter, I did everything I could just to have her including her number after I set my eyes on her.

Mercy: After the flight episode, he came around to Surulere where I was getting my hair done at a saloon. Somehow, he had gotten my number and we spoke. We talked and later had dinner.

The No Frills Marriage Proposal
Mercy: During a conversation, he suggested that we take our relationship to the next level. While we were dating, I knew we would get married because he became a part of my life and we were very passionate about each other. There was a day we attended a wedding and he said, ‘I think our wedding cake should have a tint of this colour.’

No more romantic roles, more conservative clothes & learning hubby’s language in Record Time!
Mercy: He wasn’t comfortable with the romantic scenes. I stopped taking up such roles in 2009 when I realised we were getting serious and headed for marriage. I was so in love with him that I started adjusting my lifestyle and personality to suit him. He is enlightened and well-travelled. He understands the demands of my job and has no problems with my career. He simply gives me space to fly.

Mercy: I learnt how to speak his language, Ishan, in less than a year. It wasn’t difficult for me because I was crazy about him. I bought CDS and Ishan literature and my husband also spoke the language to me whether I understood or not. I also wanted to be part of the discussions as well. It didn’t take me up to five months and I already knew the basics before we wedded. Also, I cut down on my nude dresses. He made me understand that with age, you have to let go of certain things because life is a phase.

The Money Question – Joint Account?
Mercy: He is concerned about the welfare of the family and has been like that from the outset of our relationship. While we were dating, he would give me money to make my hair and buy make-up irrespective of the fact that I also earn my own money. He does things that every husband should do for his wife. It was his idea. I am the sole signatory but my money is not in the account.

Odi: I love her dearly and I just want her to be independent and have access to funds whenever she desires without my permission.

Staying Faithful – Can you cheat on your spouse?
Mercy: Never! Moreso, I have absolute trust in him.
Odi: God forbid that I do such.