Sharon Faqua defends her surname choice amid social media backlash, insisting married women should decide whether to adopt their husbands’ names

Sharon Faqua, wife of Nollywood actor Shawn Faqua, has defended her decision to adopt her husband’s surname following social media criticism, insisting that the choice is personal and should not be subject to public judgement.

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Sharon made her position known in a video in which she challenged critics who shame married women for taking their husbands’ surnames.

She maintained that women should be free to decide how they wish to be addressed after marriage, whether they choose to retain their maiden names or adopt their husbands’ surnames.

“Why should I be ashamed to say my name is Mrs. Faqua? It’s my business, not yours,” she said.

The actor’s wife argued that taking her husband’s surname does not mean losing her identity, adding that the decision is not one she needs to justify to the public.

Her comments come amid ongoing conversations on social media about marriage, personal identity, feminism and traditional expectations placed on women.

While some people view the adoption of a husband’s surname as a customary part of marriage, others believe women should retain the freedom to choose whether to change their names.

Sharon’s response emphasised that neither decision should be used as a basis for shaming or judging married women.

The debate over whether women should adopt their husbands’ surnames has remained a subject of discussion, particularly as changing views on gender roles and personal autonomy challenge long-standing traditions.

For some women, taking a spouse’s surname represents family unity or tradition. Others prefer to retain their birth names to preserve personal identity, professional recognition or family connections.

Sharon’s remarks reinforce the view that such decisions should remain personal, rather than become a measure of a woman’s commitment to marriage or her sense of identity.

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She maintained that women should be allowed to make choices that reflect their individual preferences without facing unnecessary criticism or pressure from others.