Actress and entrepreneur Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, has spoken out on her decision to adopt her husband’s surname following her marriage to Afrobeats star Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, popularly known as Mr Eazi.
Temi, who now goes by Temiloluwa Ajibade, faced backlash online after critics accused her of abandoning the powerful “Otedola” brand name that has long shaped her identity.
Speaking to the BBC on Wednesday, she described the move as a personal choice rooted in her new marital status.
“I’m now a married woman, and the obvious thing for me was to take my husband’s name. But it’s my decision, and I respect that every woman has the right to choose,” she said.
The actress also reflected on her preference for privacy in her relationship, noting that “moving in silence allows you to build your own story and share it when you’re ready.”
Turning to her father’s newly released memoir, Temi praised Femi Otedola’s resilience, revealing how his decision not to involve his children directly in his companies pushed them to forge independent careers.
“At first I was disappointed, but it turned out to be a blessing. It encouraged us to create our own way,” she explained, adding that his grit during difficult times remains her biggest inspiration.
Temi further acknowledged her privileged upbringing, stressing the importance of honesty about it. “Oh, absolutely. You will never hear me deny it. It’s important for people born into privilege to acknowledge the advantage they’ve had,” she said.
Her remarks have reignited debate on women’s choices regarding surnames in marriage, tradition versus individuality, and the responsibility of public figures to own their narratives.
