Celebrity Marriages In Nigeria: A Call For Maturity And Commitment, by Isaac Asabor

The Nigerian entertainment industry has witnessed an alarming increase in divorce rates among its celebrities, raising concerns about the impact on societal values and the younger generation. While marriage is a personal journey, public figures bear an additional responsibility as role models who influence societal norms and behaviors.

Without a doubt, marriage is a divine institution, established by God as a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman. The Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of commitment, fidelity, and patience in sustaining a marital union. In Genesis 2:24, the scripture states: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” This verse underscores the depth of unity that marriage entails, highlighting the necessity of steadfast commitment.

Additionally, Ephesians 5:22-25 enjoins both spouses to play their roles with love and respect: “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” This mutual responsibility of submission and love reflects the biblical expectation for marriages to be nurtured with care and selflessness.

The rising trend of celebrity divorces contradicts these biblical principles, as many unions dissolve due to irreconcilable differences that often stem from pride, lack of forgiveness, or prioritization of fame over family. Malachi 2:16 warns: “For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the Lord of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, which ye deal not treacherously.” Divorce should be a last resort rather than an easy escape from marital challenges.

In African traditional religion (ATR), marriage is not merely a contract between two individuals but a sacred covenant that involves families, ancestors, and the wider community. Marriage is deeply spiritual, symbolizing the continuity of lineage and the preservation of societal harmony.

Among the Yoruba people, for instance, marriage is often accompanied by ancestral blessings, reinforcing the belief that it is a journey guided by divine and ancestral spirits. The Igbo tradition similarly emphasizes “Igba Nkwu” (wine-carrying ceremony), a process that binds not just the couple but their extended families in unity.

ATR also stresses the values of patience, sacrifice, and mutual respect in marriage. It is believed that when conflicts arise, couples must seek the counsel of elders, whose wisdom is drawn from years of experience. In contrast, the modern trend of publicly airing marital grievances on social media diminishes the traditional respect accorded to marital matters.

In African cosmology, divorce is often discouraged unless absolutely necessary, as it is seen as disrupting the natural balance and affecting not just the couple but also the unborn generations. The saying “Igba di, iga ekpe na ntị” (marriage is endurance) reinforces the cultural expectation that couples should strive to resolve conflicts rather than hastily opting for separation.

Marriage, beyond being a personal affair, is a social institution with far-reaching implications. Nigerian society places a high premium on family values, seeing marriage as a means of fostering stability, continuity, and moral order.

In the past, marriages were largely shielded from public scrutiny, and challenges were managed privately. However, the rise of social media has made it commonplace for celebrities to broadcast their marital woes to the world, often leading to public sympathy or condemnation. This trend has weakened the societal perception of marriage as a sacred and enduring bond.

Young Nigerians, particularly those who idolize celebrities, may begin to see marriage as a transient arrangement rather than a lifelong commitment. This shift in perception poses significant risks to the foundation of family life, which remains the bedrock of any thriving society.

Recent years have seen numerous high-profile marriages in the entertainment industry collapse, often accompanied by public spectacles on social media platforms. These separations frequently involve heated exchanges, allegations, and the airing of private matters in public spaces. Such displays not only diminish the sanctity of marriage but also set a troubling precedent for millions of young Nigerians who look up to these celebrities.

Celebrity status comes with its unique challenges, constant public scrutiny, busy schedules, and the pressures of maintaining a public image. However, these challenges should not overshadow the fundamental principles of marriage: commitment, patience, understanding, and mutual respect. Our celebrities must demonstrate emotional intelligence and maturity in handling marital conflicts.

Looking at the issue from the perspective of private resolution of conflicts, it is not out of place to opine that marital disputes should be resolved behind closed doors, not on social media platforms. The practice of washing dirty linen in public only serves to escalate situations and make reconciliation more difficult.

From the perspective of professional support, it is expedient seeking marriage counseling should not be seen as a sign of weakness but rather as a proactive step toward building a stronger union. Religious leaders and professional counselors can provide valuable guidance during challenging times.

From that of prioritizing family over fame, it is also expedient to opine that the demands of the entertainment industry should not overshadow family responsibilities. Creating a healthy work-life balance is crucial for maintaining strong marital bonds.

As an advice to our celebrities, it is germane to remind them that their influence extends far beyond your artistic contributions, and that young Nigerians look to them as examples of success and fulfillment in all aspects of life, including marriage. Therefore, they should let their marriages reflect the same excellence they demonstrate in their careers.

In a similar vein, it is not out of place to urge them to consider the ripple effects of their actions on society. This is as a stable marriage not only benefits their immediate family but also inspires millions of fans who aspire to build successful marriages of their own. When marital challenges arise, approach them with maturity, wisdom, and a commitment to finding solutions rather than quick exits.

Marriage requires work, patience, and dedication. As leaders in the entertainment industry, celebrities have a unique opportunity to champion these values and demonstrate that successful careers can coexist with stable marriages. It is time to shift the narrative from one of disposable relationships to one of enduring commitment and mature conflict resolution.

Let us remember that the strength of any society lies in the stability of its families. Our celebrities can contribute to this strength by treating marriage with the respect, dignity, and commitment it deserves. The entertainment industry should be known not just for its artistic achievements but also for exemplary marriages that inspire generations to come. By embracing biblical injunctions, traditional values, and societal expectations, our celebrities can help restore the sanctity of marriage and create a positive legacy for future generations.