There are days you wonder why you married him, says Omotola on realities of marriage
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“Some days I ask why I married him” — Omotola gets candid about love, faith, roles, and the real work behind nearly 30 years of marriage.
“Some Days I Ask Why I Married Him” – Omotola Opens Up on Realities of Marriage
Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, who has been married since 1996 to Captain Matthew Ekeinde, has opened up in a deeply personal and candid interview about the realities of sustaining a long-term marriage.
Speaking on Chude Jideonwo’s live podcast, the screen icon shared raw, heartfelt truths about her nearly three-decade-long marriage—dispelling fantasies of perfection and instead emphasizing honesty, friendship, faith, and self-worth.
Marriage Isn’t Always a Fairytale
Omotola didn’t shy away from the challenges that come with love and commitment.
“There are times when I look at him and I’m not in love. I go to God and report him,” she said humorously.
She went on to confess:
“There are times I look at him and think, ‘Somebody please remind me why I married this man.’ And he probably feels the same way about me.”
Omotola’s message is clear: marriage isn’t a constant emotional high, and couples must be prepared for seasons of struggle.
Spirituality Anchors Her Marriage
Omotola emphasized her faith in God as the foundation of her marriage.
“I honour him not because I feel like it, but because I honour the One who gave me the mandate to be with him.”
She advised singles to prioritize spirituality when choosing a partner:
“From the onset, pray that you meet the right person.”
Rather than rely on fleeting emotions, she turns to prayer, reflection, and spiritual discipline when challenges arise.
Respect and Roles Over Rivalry
Omotola likened marriage to a flight mission.
“I don’t believe in gender equality in the sense that both partners are identical. There is always a head and an assistant.”
To her, mutual respect doesn’t mean battling for dominance.
“When a woman proves herself as a worthy co-pilot, there’s no need for power struggles.”
Friendship Over Romance
For Omotola, friendship is more powerful than romance.
“There are times when love fizzles, but friendship holds it together. Be open. Talk to each other. That’s how you last.”
According to her, communication and companionship are the true glue that keeps a marriage strong—especially during the tough seasons.
Privacy and Selective Sharing
She cautioned against oversharing:
“Don’t put everything out there. Shelter your family and leave the rest to God.”
With social media promoting curated versions of life, Omotola stressed the importance of protecting your relationship from public scrutiny.
When Passion Dies: Take Space
When asked what to do when the fire fades, she had a surprising solution:
“Go somewhere. After a few weeks, come home. You’ll be surprised how the fire of passion is rekindled.”
Omotola believes temporary space can lead to clarity and renewed intimacy.
Financial Independence for Women
One of her strongest pieces of advice was for women to achieve financial independence before getting married.
“Women without income should not consider marriage. If you marry when you’re not financially stable, it becomes slavery.”
She emphasized the importance of entering marriage whole and self-reliant.
Marry Right—Not a Fan
Lastly, she warned against marrying someone who idolizes you:
“Don’t marry your fan. Marry someone who truly understands you, shares your values, and can handle your flaws.”
Omotola’s marriage philosophy is realistic, faith-based, and empowering, rooted in wisdom gained from experience, not just ideals.
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