In an era where public scrutiny often feels relentless, gospel artiste Afia Ayiwah has spoken out against the harsh judgments faced by gospel musicians, particularly women, who experience marital challenges or divorce.
Addressing the topic in an interview with Graphic Showbiz, Afia passionately defended her peers while emphasizing the importance of self-preservation over societal expectations.
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“Marriage is supposed to be enjoyed and not endured,” Afia stated. “Yes, it gets tough sometimes, and you are expected to overcome the challenges. However, when it gets abusive and your mental health is at stake, you need to walk out of the fire.”
Afia highlighted a significant disparity in how society perceives the marital struggles of secular and gospel artistes.
“When a secular artiste’s marriage is on the rocks, people don’t make much of it and even tend to overlook it. But when a gospel artiste’s marriage ends, it becomes such a big deal. That’s how I see it,” she said, clearly frustrated by the double standards.
The artiste further expressed her disbelief at how some Christians misinterpret Biblical teachings on marriage, often pressuring individuals to remain in toxic unions. “Nobody deserves to die because of marriage.
“As a Christian, I’ve read the Bible, and I don’t know which part of it states that marriage is a requirement to heaven and that without it, you can’t make it to the City of God,” Afia pointed out.
Afia’s remarks are a refreshing counter to the traditional narrative often imposed on women, especially those in the gospel industry. She explained that while the Bible advocates for peace in marriage, it does not demand self-sacrifice to the point of mental or physical harm.
“As a Christian, the Bible requires that there should be peace in a marriage. But I believe if it’s not working, you can walk out of it. Why should you risk your life and mental health because of marriage?”
Afia also took aim at the rumour mill that often accompanies public breakups. “Sometimes, people spread false information without knowing the facts.
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“They don’t even understand what led to the collapse of the union, yet they put out unverified stories just to taint the artiste’s reputation,” she said, urging critics to show more empathy and restraint.
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