Temi Otedola’s Name Change Rekindles Surname Debate

Lagos, Nigeria — Actress and fashion entrepreneur Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, has ignited widespread conversation after officially adopting her husband’s surname, “Ajibade,” on Instagram, following her marriage to Nigerian singer Oluwatosin Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi.

The couple, who sealed their union in 2025 through a series of grand ceremonies across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland, blended Nigerian traditions with global sophistication. From the Yoruba-themed wedding at the Otedola residence in Dubai to the intimate church service in Iceland, the celebrations symbolized family, heritage, and love, culminating in Temi’s public embrace of her new name.

Her decision, however, has reignited a longstanding cultural and feminist debate in Nigeria: Should married women take their husband’s surname or retain their maiden names?

The discussion, which had resurfaced earlier in August after feminist commentator Rachelle (@omo_kosoko) urged women to keep their names after marriage, has once again dominated social platforms. While some Nigerians hailed Temi’s action as a sign of commitment and femininity, others argued that a woman’s name should not define her marriage.

Adding more weight to the debate was an emotional moment during the wedding when Femi Otedola advised his daughter to “succumb to her husband” and described Mr Eazi as a “very great guy from a decent family.” To some, his words reflected traditional expectations, while others interpreted them as affectionate fatherly counsel.

On X and Instagram, reactions poured in from various perspectives. Some praised Temi’s choice as symbolic of respect and unity, while others dismissed the controversy as unnecessary, insisting that true marital strength lies in character, loyalty, and shared vision rather than surnames. A number of commentators also highlighted that adopting a husband’s surname is a colonial, rather than African, tradition, emphasizing that the decision should remain a personal choice.

For many Nigerians, Temi’s choice mirrors a broader struggle faced by women balancing personal identity, cultural expectations, and societal pressures in marriage.

By Adeola Olaniya | September 6, 2025.