A lady has sparked debate online after questioning why women are expected to change their surnames once they get married.
She argued that marriage, being a union, should represent two individuals coming together as equals, not one person erasing their initial identity.
Marriage should be a union of equals, not identity erasure
She explained that while tradition often dictates that women adopt their husband’s name, this practice historically positioned women as extensions of their husbands rather than independent individuals.
“Because it’s tradition doesn’t make it fair or sensible. If a woman wants to take her husband’s name, please take it, but let it be your choice, not something expected by default,” she said.
The post quickly drew varied reactions from social media users.
Social media reactions
@HOTA_Abuja commented: “For quick identification, that is why it is called Union. After all, Union has one name.”
@august_wealth added: “I’m just surprised by the fact that some people agree with her.”
@truth_teller wrote: “Omo all this complain don Dey vex. If u no fancy marriage just don’t marry because u people are doing too much lately, allow us to rest.”
@JangoAdejare remarked: “If e reach her turn make she no change her name.”
@Samuelobiora77 noted: “Very soon, education will finish everyone in this our country Nigeria because our own is getting too much. So now this lady is now defining the characteristic of union, for her mind now she sabi book.”
Watch the video below…
If marriage is a union why are women expected to change their name once they get married” — Lady questions pic.twitter.com/3JSU7QWKE0
— TENIOLA (@Teeniiola) December 29, 2025
