‘I Respect Their Space’: Omoni Oboli on Her Son’s Marriage

Nollywood actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli has recently opened up about her decision to stay out of her son’s marriage, emphasizing her approach as a concerned mother and grandmother. During her appearance on the ‘Dear Ife’ podcast, she explained her reasoning for not interfering in the relationship between her son and his wife.

Omoni, who is the mother of three sons, believes in the importance of empathy and understanding in familial relationships. She noted that rather than viewing situations solely from her perspective, she tries to put herself in her daughter-in-law’s shoes. Omoni’s approach comes from her own experiences; she married at 21, the same age as her daughter-in-law. Looking back, she acknowledged that she was strong-headed, which helped her understand the dynamics of her son’s marriage. I wouldn’t have appreciated someone telling me what to do. It’s only natural that my daughter-in-law feels the same way.’ This realization has allowed her to respect the boundaries of her son’s new family unit, reinforcing the idea that each couple deserves their own space to grow and navigate their relationship without outside interference.

Omoni also highlighted the importance of communication within families. She mentioned instances when her son approached her, saying, “Mum, Marelle does not like that.” In those moments, she catches herself and reassesses her words and actions. “It’s essential that your child feels comfortable enough to discuss their spouse’s feelings with you,” she noted. “If not, that indicates a deeper problem in the family dynamic.”

She further emphasized that when a child marries, they establish a new family. While they remain part of their original family, it’s crucial to recognize that they are also forming their household. Omoni Oboli’s perspective sheds light on the delicate balance of parenting, respect, and the evolving nature of family ties, illustrating her commitment to fostering healthy relationships without overstepping boundaries.