Nigerian actress Temi Otedola, daughter of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, has explained her decision to adopt her husband’s surname following her high-profile wedding to Afrobeats star Mr Eazi.
Temi, 29, who tied the knot with the singer, born Oluwatosin Oluwole Ajibade, in a three-part celebration across Monaco, Dubai, and Iceland, said the decision to take on his name was a “natural and personal choice.”
The glamorous wedding, reportedly valued at $15 million, drew international attention and sparked conversations after the actress updated her Instagram bio to read “Temi Otedola Ajibade”.
The name change triggered mixed reactions online, with some fans questioning why she chose to “drop” her famous surname. But in an interview with BBC Pidgin, Temi clarified that her choice was entirely personal and rooted in tradition.
“To be deeply honest with you, it’s not anything I had thought about. It was obvious that when I became a married woman, the obvious thing for me was to take my husband’s name, but it’s my choice,” she said.
“I respect everybody’s personal choice. It’s what I’m comfortable and happy doing it.”
Temi added that she respects women who choose differently, noting that identity after marriage is a deeply personal matter.
The actress also opened up about what drew her to Mr Eazi, revealing that their bond was built on friendship and shared values. The couple began dating in 2017, and Mr Eazi proposed in April 2023 after six years together.
“There are too many that made me marry him. How would I choose one? I mean, first and foremost, he’s my best friend, that’s my person. And I think when you meet your person, you will know,” she said.
“I can’t imagine spending the rest of my life with anybody else. He’s the person I’m excited about and can’t wait to spend every day with and build our lives together, work through our ups and downs together, celebrate together, and solve problems together. He’s simply my person. So, we’re just excited for what’s to come.”
