Linda Ikeji on Why Her Son Bears Her Surname
Prominent blogger Linda Ikeji has shared the reasons behind her decision to have her son, Jayce, bear her surname rather than his father’s. Ever since Jayce’s birth six years ago, Ikeji has maintained that he should carry her surname, explaining that he can choose to change it when he is older.
In an Instagram post, Ikeji expressed her admiration for her son’s cousin, Ryan Kanu, calling him “the best little human ever.” She posted a picture of Jayce and Ryan, emphasizing their close relationship and adventures together. “Jayce Ikeji and Ryan Kanu take Disney/Marvel Paris. Cousins, best friends, and literally growing up together as brothers. Their love for each other is incredible, and when they can help it, are inseparable!” she wrote.
This decision, however, has sparked debate among some social media users who believe it goes against traditional African customs. One user, Foluke676, questioned, “Which one is Jayce Ikeji again, is he your father’s child, Linda?” Another user, dr_alwaysrozy, added, “Why would you give your son your own father’s name?”
In response to these comments, Ikeji clarified her decision: “Just to be clear, I’ve NEVER had to change my son’s surname. He’s been an Ikeji right from when he was born! Changing or keeping his surname (Ikeji) will be up to him when he’s of age.”
Linda Ikeji gave birth to Jayce in an Atlanta hospital in Georgia, USA, in 2018. While there were reports that oil magnate Sholaye Jeremi is Jayce’s father, Ikeji has confirmed that their relationship is over. Despite the end of their relationship, she continues to make decisions she believes are in the best interest of her son, including the choice of his surname.
