Anita Okoye, the ex-wife of Nigerian music star Paul Okoye, has faced backlash on social media for continuing to use his surname after their divorce.
Despite their split, Anita proudly announced her recent academic achievement—a Master’s Degree in Arts and Design from Savannah College—on social media, sparking mixed reactions.
Earlier, Anita had shared her graduation news with photos of herself in her graduation gown and cap, prompting congratulations from many, including Paul Okoye. However, some followers questioned why she still bears his surname despite their divorce and his recent remarriage.
One user, I Am Jasper Jay, commented,
Why is she bearing Okoye or bride price has not been refunded? After Paul paid for Ivy. I’m confused.” Another, Official Eldero1, wrote, “Why is it that women will leave their husbands but still keep their names? It’s a tufiakwa situation.”
Others defended Anita, noting the challenges of changing one’s name post-divorce. Bethy Damilola stated,
You people saying she still has his last name, do you know how stressful it is to do a change of name? You people should focus on what’s important, jare.” Another user added, “To all those asking why she kept his last name, be informed that under the law, no one has a monopoly of any name; as long as she isn’t misrepresenting herself to be his wife, the law allows her to keep the name.”
Anita filed for divorce in 2021, citing reasons such as cheating, separation, absenteeism, fraud, and difficult experiences. In 2022, an Abuja High Court granted her a divorce, awarding her a monthly settlement of $20,000 and several of Paul’s properties.
Despite the divorce, Anita and Paul have maintained an amicable relationship for the sake of their children. They reunited at his concert in Detroit and celebrated their first child’s birthday together. Paul also acknowledged Anita on Mother’s Day, which she appreciated.
Since their divorce, Paul has moved on with influencer Ivy Ifeoma, whom he recently married. Paul clarified that he was single for four years before meeting Ivy, and reports suggest that they married quickly due to Ivy’s pregnancy.
Also Read: King Rudy Celebrates Ex-Wife Anita Okoye’s Academic Triumph
