Veteran Nollywood actor Emeka Ike has dismissed the popular notion that love and marriage are scams, arguing that the problem lies in the intentions people bring into relationships rather than the institution itself.
Speaking in an interview with BBC News Pidgin, which was shared on Instagram on July 3, the actor said relationships only become “fraudulent” when one partner secretly views the other as a source of financial support.
According to him, genuine love remains meaningful and should be based on honesty, not hidden motives or monetary expectations.
“Love and marriage is not a scam. But some people are hungry and use relationships as a meal ticket. That’s where it becomes a scam,” he said.
Emeka Ike also criticised what he described as a growing trend of individuals entering relationships mainly for financial benefits, particularly women who seek wealthy partners solely for material gain. He argued that such behaviour undermines the essence of relationships.
“Some girls go into relationships just because of what they want to collect from the man. They should rather go and beg on the streets, not use relationship. Relationship is supposed to be sacred,” he added.
The actor-turned-politician further cautioned Nigerians against relying on relationship advice from people whose marriages have failed, stressing that each relationship has its own dynamics and requires patience and effort to work.
He maintained that couples should focus on understanding and resolving issues within their relationships instead of pursuing them for financial advantage.