“It’s Not Love, It’s a Passport”: BBNaija Star, Uriel Oputa Decries The Alarming Rate At Which Igbo Men Are 'Marrying Older Women'

 

Nigerian reality TV star and entrepreneur Uriel Oputa has sparked a wave of conversation following her recent remarks about a growing trend among some Igbo men. Taking to social media to air her concerns, the Big Brother Naija alum expressed frustration over what she sees as an unsettling pattern: young Igbo men marrying significantly older white women, often decades their senior.

According to Uriel, the motivation behind these unions has less to do with love or emotional connection and more to do with the pursuit of foreign passports and residency rights. Her comments have quickly stirred up debate online, with many questioning the cultural, ethical, and personal dynamics behind such marriages.

“Some of my Igbo brothers are marrying women old enough to be their mothers,” she wrote. “And before you come at me, please don’t. I’m speaking facts. This isn’t about love, it’s about getting that passport.” Her tone was both serious and disappointed, hinting at deeper frustrations she feels regarding shifting values within her cultural community.

Oputa’s words have drawn attention not just because of their provocative nature, but also because they touch on broader issues surrounding identity, migration, and societal expectations. As someone who has consistently used her platform to speak on matters of social importance — from body positivity to women’s empowerment — Uriel’s statement is resonating beyond entertainment gossip.

Critics of the trend she described argue that it reflects a transactional approach to relationships, one where affection and compatibility take a back seat to strategic gains. Such arrangements, they say, risk reducing marriage — a deeply personal and often spiritual commitment — to a mere means to an end. For Uriel, this not only undermines the institution of marriage, but also casts a shadow over the image of Igbo men globally.

She went further, suggesting that this behavior projects a negative stereotype onto Igbo men. “It’s heartbreaking to see. There are beautiful, smart, and successful women in Nigeria — women who share your background and values. But instead, you choose someone who sees you as a project just as much as you see them as a passport,” Uriel added.

Supporters of her viewpoint say she’s raising necessary questions, especially at a time when migration is a major concern for many young Nigerians. With dwindling economic opportunities at home, some see international marriage as a practical escape route — a ticket to a perceived better life abroad. Yet, Uriel seems to suggest that the cost of that ticket may be higher than anticipated, especially when it compromises emotional authenticity and cultural integrity.

On the other hand, some voices within the online community argue that love comes in many forms, and relationships should not be judged based on age or race. For them, Uriel’s observations risk shaming individuals for choices that, while unconventional, may be genuine. They warn against broad-brushing all such relationships as opportunistic.

Uriel, however, remains unshaken. Her commentary is not an indictment of interracial or intergenerational relationships per se, but rather a call to examine motivations. “Love doesn’t need to come with a visa appointment,” she quipped in a follow-up Instagram story.

This isn’t the first time the media personality has spoken candidly about issues affecting Nigerian youth. Known for her candidness and sharp social commentary, Uriel has carved a niche for herself as a voice willing to challenge uncomfortable truths, even when they hit close to home.

As debates continue to swirl, one thing is clear: Uriel’s words have touched a nerve. Whether seen as a necessary critique or an overstep, her commentary has ignited a broader dialogue about the intersection of love, migration, and personal values in modern Nigerian society.

Cultural observers suggest this discourse may continue to grow, especially as more Nigerians seek pathways out of the country. For Uriel, it appears the goal isn’t to shame but to prompt reflection — a reminder that while the desire for a better life is valid, the route one takes should not compromise dignity or cultural self-respect.

With the social media firestorm far from cooling, only time will tell whether Uriel’s message will influence change — or simply echo through the chambers of internet discourse. Either way, her voice has once again proven powerful enough to shift conversations.