Nollywood veteran Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde is speaking frankly about a topic many couples quietly struggle with — in-law tensions in marriage.
During a recent appearance on Morayo Afolabi-Brown’s podcast, the actress shared personal reflections on navigating family resistance and the emotional toll it can take on a union.
Addressing newlyweds and intending couples, Omotola urged them to make genuine efforts to build bridges where possible.
“If the family you are marrying into doesn’t like you, try everything you possibly can to make them understand and like you. But there are some parents that won’t just give in no matter what you do.”
However, she cautioned that not every battle for acceptance is worth fighting endlessly.
“My advice: it’s not worth it. Marriage in itself is already an institution where you’re going to face a lot. It’s a lifetime journey; every step you’re going to need support, and if these people are not going to support you from the beginning, you’re going to have a very rough journey.”
The award-winning filmmaker emphasized that marriage already demands emotional strength, patience and partnership. Adding prolonged family hostility into the mix, she suggested, can make the journey significantly harder.
Her remarks have sparked conversation online, with many couples relating to the delicate balance between respecting extended family and protecting their marital peace.
Omotola’s message was clear: make the effort, but never lose sight of the foundation of your home. In the end, sustaining the marriage matters more than winning approval.
