A Nigerian woman based in Canada, Arike Ariyo, has stirred mixed reactions online after she publicly praised her husband’s girlfriends for their kindness, generosity, and positive contributions to her family’s well-being.
In a viral TikTok video, Arike reflected on her life back in Nigeria and surprisingly included her husband’s romantic partners as part of what she misses most. While initially mentioning the usual comforts such as her driver, car washman, and pepper vendor, it was her heartfelt appreciation for her husband’s lovers that captured viewers’ attention.
Describing the women as individuals of “good standing,” Arike said they were instrumental in supporting her during financially difficult times, especially when she struggled to provide clothes for her children. According to her, the women consistently sent high-quality imported clothes for the children, easing her burden.
She went on to recount how the same women played pivotal roles during her mother-in-law’s burial, demonstrating acts of generosity and involvement that left lasting impressions. Despite living far away in Canada, Arike claimed her husband is well taken care of by the women, who regularly check on him and support him in her absence.
In a statement that has since gone viral, Arike said:
“May God not put asunder between my husband and his girlfriends. Imagine I had been selfish. Don’t be stingy. Leave your husband, let him enjoy himself, you will be the one to enjoy the most.”
The video, shared under her TikTok handle @arikeariyoglobal, has drawn widespread reactions—ranging from admiration for her openness to criticism over her unconventional perspective on marital boundaries. Some netizens praised her emotional maturity, while others expressed discomfort, citing the potential moral and cultural implications.
Her post has since sparked broader discussions around modern-day relationships, polygamy, and unconventional family dynamics, particularly among Nigerians living abroad.
Whether seen as controversial or commendable, Arike’s take offers a rare public perspective on coexistence, forgiveness, and redefined loyalty in modern relationships.
