Adeboye To Men “Don’t Marry A Woman Who Can’t Cook”

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has ignited fresh debate after advising men not to marry women who cannot cook, a statement that has quickly gained traction across social media platforms.

May 2, 2026 — The comment, delivered during a recent church programme and circulated in a viral video, reflects a long-standing theme in the cleric’s teachings on marriage, where he emphasizes domestic responsibility, spirituality, and diligence as key attributes in choosing a partner.

While supporters interpret the advice as culturally grounded guidance on preparedness for family life, critics argue that such remarks reinforce outdated gender expectations and overlook evolving realities in modern relationships, where shared responsibilities are increasingly emphasized.

Public reactions have been sharply divided, with some defending the statement as practical counsel rooted in tradition, while others describe it as reductive and inconsistent with contemporary values of equality and mutual partnership.

Similar past remarks by the cleric have historically generated comparable controversy, highlighting the enduring sensitivity of gender discourse in Nigeria’s socio-religious landscape.

Analysts note that the episode underscores a broader societal tension; where traditional beliefs about marriage continue to intersect, and often clash, with shifting global norms around gender roles, autonomy, and shared domestic responsibilities.