Actress Yvonne Jegede: “Marriage is Overrated”

Nollywood screen sensation Yvonne Jegede has set social media abuzz with her candid take on modern romance, describing the institution of marriage as “overrated.” In a revealing interview with Naija FM Lagos, the 42-year-old actress clarified that while she hasn’t permanently slammed the door on matrimony, she is certainly not pounding the pavement to find a husband. Her comments have sparked a fresh debate on the evolution of domestic partnerships in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

“I am open to remarriage if it comes, but I am not looking for it. I have learnt not to say ‘never’,” Jegede explained with a sense of hard-won maturity. Her perspective is rooted in a pragmatic observation of contemporary relationships, where long-term courtships often crumble shortly after legal papers are signed. She pointed to a growing trend of couples who date for over a decade only to divorce within two years of their wedding, questioning if the “marriage tag” itself introduces a toxic level of intolerance.

Jegede’s stance is shaped by a turbulent personal history that played out in the full glare of the public eye. Her marriage to fellow actor Olakunle “Abounce” Fawole in 2017 was once celebrated as a fairytale union, yet it famously collapsed in 2019 after less than a year. The actress has been vocal about the “financial imbalance” that plagued the relationship, previously admitting that she served as the primary provider and ultimately regretted choosing emotional sentiment over financial stability.

In her latest sit-down, the mother of one suggested that the traditional marriage structure might be fundamentally flawed for some. “I think it is better to find who you love and just cohabit with them,” she added, advocating for a more flexible arrangement that prioritizes mutual respect over societal titles. Her comments reflect a shift in the mindset of many high-profile Nigerian women who are increasingly prioritizing peace of mind over the pressure to remain in dysfunctional unions.

Beyond her views on cohabitation, Jegede has recently emerged as a voice of advocacy for her colleagues. Just months ago, she publicly advised fellow actress Regina Daniels to prioritize her safety and exit her marriage if allegations of domestic violence were true. This outspokenness has cemented her reputation as a woman who values personal integrity and mental well-being over the preservation of an “overrated” social status.

As Jegede celebrates two decades in the film industry, she appears more focused on her legacy as a storyteller and mother than as a wife. While her critics may argue that her views are cynical, her supporters see a woman who is simply refusing to settle for a lopsided partnership. For now, the “African Queen” star is content with her independence, proving that for a woman of her caliber, a ring is no longer the ultimate measure of success.