When Nollywood actor Jim Iyke recently said, “Divorce doesn’t stop me from being a good father,” many applauded his honesty and maturity. Social media users praised him for being open about his parenting journey despite a failed marriage. It was seen as refreshing—a man admitting his emotional struggles, accepting his flaws, and still committing to fatherhood.
But here’s the real question: Would a female celebrity—say, Tonto Dikeh—be celebrated the same way for saying, “Being a single mother doesn’t stop me from being a good parent”?
The answer is sadly obvious: No.
Tonto Dikeh, one of Nollywood’s most talked-about single mothers, has long been vocal about raising her son alone after her highly publicized separation. She has spoken about being present, protective, and proud as a mother. Yet, instead of universal praise, she’s often met with harsh criticism, accusations of “seeking attention,” or being “controversial.”
That’s the hypocrisy society must confront.
Why Should Only Men Get Grace?
Jim Iyke admitted to being a “woeful husband” but a good father. He was praised for it. But when Tonto Dikeh or any other single mother says she’s doing her best for her child without a partner, the public is quick to say, “She should keep quiet,” or “She’s using the child to trend.”
Why? Why does a man get applause for trying, while a woman gets judged for surviving?
This isn’t just about Tonto—it’s about all the women in the spotlight who are mothers, caretakers, and breadwinners, yet constantly criticized for not fitting into outdated molds.
Single Celebrity Mothers Carry Twice the Weight
Being a single mother in the public eye means carrying double expectations. Society expects you to be a perfect parent, maintain your career, keep silent about your struggles, and never speak about your ex. If you do speak up, you’re “drama.” If you don’t, you’re “fake.”
Yet women like Tonto Dikeh, Tiwa Savage, Mercy Aigbe, and others continue to raise their children with strength and visibility—despite the noise. That takes courage.
What’s Wrong with a Woman Saying She’s a Good Mother?
Absolutely nothing.
A woman has every right to say, “I’m proud of how I’ve raised my child.” She doesn’t need to be married to make that statement valid. She doesn’t need approval from the public to believe she’s doing well.
If a divorced father can say he’s still a good parent, a single mother should be allowed to say the same—without shame, backlash, or mockery.
We Must Normalize These Truths:
Parenthood is not tied to marital status.
Single mothers can be—and often are—excellent parents.
A woman has the right to speak about her parenting experience without fear of being labeled.
Public perception should not define private success.
Jim Iyke deserves the support he’s getting for being honest about his journey. But so does Tonto Dikeh—and every other woman raising a child with strength, dignity, and love.
If we can celebrate men for being “present fathers,” then we must honor the resilience of women who are present every single day—without help, without rest, and often without applause.
Being a single mother is not a weakness. It is power in motion.
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