Nollywood actor and filmmaker Yul Edochie has sparked a heated debate with his recent comments on the complexities of marriage. Speaking in a candid interview and on social media, Edochie advised individuals in troubled marriages to prioritize their peace of mind and happiness by walking away if the relationship becomes unbearable. His statement, “If your marriage isn’t working, walk away,” has resonated with many while also drawing criticism from others who believe marriage should be preserved at all costs.
Edochie’s views reflect the realities of modern relationships and the evolving dynamics of marriage in a world where mental health and personal fulfillment are increasingly prioritized. “Staying in a marriage that drains you emotionally, mentally, or physically doesn’t make you a hero,” Edochie said. “It’s not a badge of honor to endure a relationship that consistently brings pain and suffering. Life is too short to spend it in misery.”
The actor, who has experienced his share of public scrutiny over his personal life, spoke about the importance of self-respect and self-care in relationships. “Marriage is supposed to be a partnership built on love, respect, and mutual understanding,” he explained. “If those foundations are missing, and every effort to rebuild them fails, then it’s better to let go. Clinging to a toxic or unfulfilling union only breeds resentment and unhappiness.”
Edochie acknowledged that walking away from a marriage is often easier said than done, especially in cultures where marriage is viewed as a sacred, lifelong commitment. “I understand that there’s a lot of societal pressure to stay married, no matter what,” he said. “People are often told to ‘endure’ or ‘stay for the sake of the children.’ But what good are you to your children or society if you’re broken, depressed, or living a life of quiet despair?”
He stressed that the decision to leave a marriage should not be taken lightly. “Marriage is a serious commitment, and it requires effort from both parties to make it work. But there comes a point where you have to ask yourself if you’ve done all you can. Have you sought counseling? Have you communicated your needs and concerns? If the answer is yes, and nothing changes, then it might be time to walk away.”
Edochie also touched on the stigma surrounding divorce, particularly for women. “In many cultures, a divorced woman is often unfairly judged or ostracized, while men face less scrutiny,” he said. “This double standard needs to end. Everyone deserves the chance to rebuild their lives and find happiness, regardless of their gender or marital status.”
The actor’s comments have struck a chord with many, especially those who have endured toxic relationships. Social media users have shared their own experiences of staying in marriages that left them feeling trapped and unfulfilled. One Twitter user wrote, “Yul Edochie is right. I stayed in a bad marriage for years because I was afraid of what people would say. Leaving was the best decision I ever made. Now I’m at peace and rediscovering myself.”
However, not everyone agrees with Edochie’s perspective. Critics argue that his statement oversimplifies the complexities of marriage and undermines the importance of perseverance and commitment. “Marriage isn’t supposed to be easy,” one Facebook commenter wrote. “Every relationship has its challenges. The idea of walking away when things get tough is why so many marriages fail today.”
Edochie addressed these criticisms, clarifying that his advice is not about abandoning responsibilities or avoiding challenges. “I’m not saying people should give up on their marriages at the first sign of trouble,” he explained. “Every marriage will face ups and downs, and it’s important to fight for your relationship. But there’s a difference between fighting for something worth saving and staying in a situation that’s damaging your well-being.”
He also highlighted the role of communication and compromise in resolving marital issues. “Many problems in marriage can be solved with honest communication and a willingness to work together,” he said. “But when one person refuses to meet the other halfway, or when there’s abuse or betrayal, it becomes a different story. At that point, staying can do more harm than good.”
Edochie’s bold stance has reignited conversations about the societal expectations surrounding marriage and the importance of prioritizing individual happiness. His message is particularly relevant in an era where mental health awareness is growing, and more people are recognizing the importance of setting boundaries and protecting their peace.
For Edochie, the ultimate goal is not to encourage divorce but to empower people to make decisions that lead to healthier, happier lives. “Walking away from a marriage that isn’t working doesn’t mean you’ve failed,” he said. “It means you’ve chosen to value yourself and your well-being. It’s a step toward a brighter future, and there’s no shame in that.”
As society continues to grapple with changing views on marriage and relationships, Edochie’s words serve as a reminder that every individual deserves a chance at happiness and fulfillment—even if it means walking away from a union that no longer serves them.