Comments made by veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde have sparked conversation online, not only about marriage, but about where responsibility truly lies when in-laws are unwelcoming.
During a recent interview with TVC host Morayo Afolabi Brown, the actress encouraged spouses to make deliberate efforts to build positive relationships with their in-laws, suggesting that patience and consistent goodwill can eventually soften resistance.
However, her remarks have ignited debate among social commentators who argue that the burden of acceptance should not rest solely on the spouse seeking approval.
Should Acceptance Be Earned?
Critics point out that while diplomacy and emotional intelligence are valuable in family settings, consistently asking one partner to “win over” in-laws may unintentionally normalize exclusion or hostility.
Marriage counselors note that in-law tensions often stem from deeper issues such as cultural expectations, control dynamics, or unresolved family boundaries. In such cases, experts argue that responsibility should be shared — including the biological child’s role in setting clear expectations with their own family.
The Pressure on Newlyweds
Many newly married individuals, particularly women in African societies, report experiencing intense scrutiny from extended family members. Expectations around domestic roles, fertility, financial contribution, and loyalty frequently become sources of strain.
Analysts say that framing acceptance as something a spouse must earn may overlook structural power imbalances within traditional family systems.
Marriage Without External Stress
In her interview, Omotola also highlighted how marriage is already complex without added tension from extended family. On this point, observers largely agree.
Relationship experts emphasize that strong marital foundations require unity between partners first. When couples fail to present a united front, in-law conflicts can escalate quickly, sometimes causing long-term emotional damage.
A Larger Conversation
While Omotola’s advice focused on patience and harmony, the public reaction suggests a broader societal question:
Should the path to family peace rely primarily on the incoming spouse’s effort, or should families examine their own openness to change?
As discussions continue online, the conversation has evolved beyond celebrity commentary into a deeper reflection on boundaries, respect, and shared responsibility in marriage.
