Posted by Chinenye on Tue 16th Jun, 2026 - tori.ng
A Nigerian clergyman has stirred widespread reactions after redefining what he believes is a man’s core responsibility in marriage, challenging common expectations around love and financial provision.
(Bisi Adewale. Photo Credit: Guardian Nigeria News)
Bisi Adewale, a well-known clergyman and relationship counselor, has caused controversy by stating that a husband's main duty in a marriage is not to love his wife or provide for his family.
During a sermon, the pastor stated that many men misjudge their position in marriage by prioritizing tenderness and material support over their spiritual obligations.
He asserts that a married man's primary responsibility is to act as the family priest, preserving a close contact with God and providing spiritual guidance for his household.
"Providing is not a man's primary responsibility in a marriage. Loving his wife is not a man's primary responsibility in a marriage. A man's primary responsibility in a marriage is to serve as a priest of the family,” he said.
Pastor Adewale went on to say that a man who loves his wife without first loving God may end up hurting her because his love becomes selfish and focused on human desires.
"It isn't about loving your wife. If you love your wife but do not love God, you will quickly be wicked to her because you will not know how to love her. "Your love will be selfish and demanding," he explained.
The cleric cited a biblical concept, emphasizing that pursuing God should precede all other aspects of life, including marriage.
He quoted the scripture, saying, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and every other thing shall be added," adding that marriage is one of the "other things" that follow when a person prioritizes God.