Popular Nigerian actress Kemi Lala Akindoju has ignited a debate with her views on marriage, childbirth, and the tradition of children inheriting their father’s surname.
In a recent public statement, Akindoju questioned the convention that requires women to adopt their husband’s surname and the automatic assumption that children will inherit their father’s surname and state of origin. She expressed concern about the impact of these traditions on women’s roles and rights in naming their children.
Akindoju notes a disconnect with scriptural teachings that suggest a man should cleave to his wife, challenging the cultural norms that prioritise male identity in marriages.
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She stated, “Scripture actually says the man cleaves to the woman, but what do I know. Most importantly, a woman should have the freedom to choose whether she wants to change her name, keep it, or combine it.”
She also criticised the societal expectations placed on women to change their identity upon marriage, while men are rarely expected to undergo any alteration to their names or identities.
Akindoju wrote, “If we truly want to adhere to the idea of ‘two shall become one,’ both surnames should be merged. I question why children automatically inherit the man’s surname and state of origin, and why it seems that the man ‘owns’ the child. The whole concept is troubling, especially considering the woman’s significant role in childbirth.”
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Akindoju concluded by saying that women should be allowed to decide whether to change their names or not, challenging the practice of requiring women to adjust their identities while men remain unaffected.
“It’s odd that boys are never raised to expect changes to their identity, but women are socialized to anticipate losing their name and identity. I don’t have all the answers, but I question this practice deeply.”
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