Manny Ita –
In a recent and highly publicized interview with Punch Newspapers and Naija FM, Nollywood actress and producer Yvonne Jegede has sparked a national conversation by declaring that “marriage is overrated” and asserting that the institution often fails to benefit women. Reflecting on her 20-year journey in the film industry and her own highly public divorce, the 42-year-old star offered a blunt assessment of the gender dynamics within Nigerian households.
The Pressure of Expectations
Jegede highlighted that while many couples date for over a decade, their unions often collapse shortly after the “marriage tag” is added. She attributed this to a surge in intolerance and rigid expectations that disproportionately affect women.
”From my perspective and within my environment, marriage doesn’t always favour women. There are exceptions, of course, but from what I’ve seen and experienced, many women carry a lot of pressure and expectations that are not always balanced.”
Financial Independence and Single Motherhood
Addressing her life as a single mother to her son, Xavier, Jegede emphasized the necessity of self-reliance. She noted that since she does not have a provider, she has had to embrace total responsibility for her household, which has significantly influenced her career choices and drive.
- On Financial Roles: She challenged traditional norms, stating, “Whoever earns more should be willing to support the other person… The focus should be on the well-being of the family, not on who earns more.”
- On Stigma: Despite being mocked in the past for being a divorcee, she now views the public’s attention as a sign of her continued relevance in the industry.
Stance on Remarriage
While she isn’t “closing the door” on love, Jegede made it clear that she is no longer actively seeking a husband. She advised women to prioritize their personal happiness over societal timelines and “marriage tags” that often lead to unhappiness.
“I am open to remarriage if it comes, but I am not looking for it. I have learnt not to say ‘never’,” she concluded, urging others to find what works for them rather than forcing themselves into a societal box.
