Pastor Bisola Badejo Calls for Women to Leave Feminism at the Door of Marriage
Nigerian pastor, author, and CEO of Celebration Church International, Bisola Badejo, has publicly advised women to set aside feminist principles when entering into marriage, emphasizing that the institution operates under specific biblical guidelines. In a recent interview that has gained widespread attention on social media, Badejo explained that according to scriptural teachings, wives are expected to submit to their husbands, while husbands are commanded to love their wives unconditionally.
Analogy from Covenant University Illustrates Marriage as a Sacred Space
Badejo used an analogy from Covenant University, a Christian institution in Nigeria founded by Bishop David Oyedepo, known for its strict regulations. She noted that while students are prohibited from using phones or wearing jeans on campus, they freely do so outside, highlighting how different environments have unique rules. Similarly, she argued that marriage functions as a sacred space with its own distinct guidelines, separate from the wider world where feminist ideals can thrive.
Badejo clarified that submission in marriage is not about losing one's identity or being dominated, but rather a voluntary act of partnership that maintains dignity and respect. She presented herself as an example, stating that she submits to her husband proudly without feeling oppressed, reinforcing her belief that submission is a choice grounded in faith and mutual respect.
Mixed Reactions from Nigerians on Social Media
The pastor's remarks have sparked intense conversations online, with Nigerians expressing diverse opinions on the intersection of faith, feminism, and marriage. Some users agreed with Badejo, arguing that feminism can lead to competition within marriage, while others contended that feminism focuses on dignity and mutual respect, both inside and outside the home.
- @DejiofAkurahq commented: "She is right but also wrong. A woman who can't respect men outside unless it is her husband is a time bomb... Submission and respect are not only needed at home but people around you also need to testify to your Godlike behaviour."
- @EyinadeHadedayo wrote: "Feminism isn't about disrespecting a spouse — it's about asserting your dignity and autonomy, especially in spaces where abuse, oppression, or inequality exists."
- @d3mzee said: "The fact that most of these female Christians nowadays choose what they obey in the scriptures and what they won't is really concerning."
Advice for Men and Broader Implications
Turning to men, Badejo advised them to abandon cultural behaviors that could undermine equality, emphasizing that Christ should be seen as the ultimate leader in the household. She stressed that women should embrace submission within the home but remain firm in defending their autonomy outside, particularly against men who might inappropriately demand submission.
This discussion comes amid broader debates, as highlighted by a recent case where a Nigerian feminist on TikTok announced quitting feminism after conflicts with her husband, citing that feminist beliefs affected her marriage. Badejo's advice adds to ongoing conversations about how individuals navigate traditional values and modern ideologies in personal relationships.
