Renowned Nigerian actress Kemi Lala Akindoju has ignited a conversation on the deeply entrenched traditions surrounding marriage, particularly the expectation for women to adopt their husband’s surname. Akindoju expressed her discomfort with the automatic assumption that children should bear their father’s surname and inherit his state of origin, a practice she believes unfairly diminishes the significant role women play in childbirth.
Drawing attention to scriptural references, Akindoju challenged the cultural norms that favour male identity in marital unions. She highlighted that, according to scripture, “the man cleaves to the woman,” questioning why societal practices do not reflect this principle.
“Most importantly, a woman should be allowed to choose. Whether she wants to change her name or not or compound it,” Akindoju stated. She criticised the societal expectations that women should prepare for a change in identity upon marriage, while men face no such pressure.
Oreoluwa is an accountant and a brand writer with a flair for journalism.
