Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Etinosa Idemudia has ignited a fierce debate on parenting and societal violence after declaring that many mothers and fathers are the root cause of the "monsters" plaguing society today. In a social media post shared on Friday, August 21, 2026, the outspoken actress laid the blame for societal delinquency squarely on parenting practices, particularly the generational cycle of domestic abuse and corporal punishment. Etinosa argued that mothers who stayed with abusive husbands inadvertently taught their sons that violence is acceptable and their daughters that abuse is normal. She also criticised parents who believe beating is the only way to correct a child, noting that such methods teach children to be violent.
The actress urged the younger generation to break the cycle by raising children without violence and adopting healthier forms of discipline. Her comments draw from personal experience, as she has previously spoken publicly about surviving domestic violence during her first marriage, which she described as marrying a "monster" at the age of 22. She also revealed that the abuse became so severe that she turned to illicit substances as a way of coping. This background lends weight to her criticism, suggesting that her remarks stem from firsthand knowledge of the devastating effects of domestic violence and poor parenting.
While many social media users have applauded Etinosa for speaking out against domestic violence and generational trauma, others have criticised her for generalising and placing excessive blame on parents without addressing systemic issues. Some argue that her comments risk alienating parents who are struggling but trying their best, while others have pointed out that societal problems are often more complex and cannot be attributed solely to parenting. Etinosa has previously tackled similar themes, including criticising African parents for emotional blackmailand arguing that impoverished families bringing children into the world should be criminalised.
Etinosa, who holds a bachelor's degree in computer engineering from Covenant University and worked as a planning engineer before transitioning to acting full-time in 2016, has won acclaim for her role as Akugbe in the ROK series "Blood of Enogie," earning a Best Actress award at the Hollywood and African Prestigious Awards. As a mother of one, she has also spoken about the lessons she wants to teach her daughter, stating that "marriage or having children is not an achievement". Her film "A Mother's Mistake" also explores themes of single motherhood and toxic relationships.
Etinosa's comments come amid rising concerns about domestic violence and child abuse in Nigeria. According to UNICEF, one in four Nigerian girls and one in ten boys experience sexual violence before the age of 18, while the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey reports that nearly 30 per cent of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical violence. The COVID-19 pandemic also exacerbated cases of domestic violence, with many victims trapped at home with abusers. Child rights advocates have long called for the prohibition of corporal punishment in all settings, arguing that it violates children's rights and perpetuates cycles of violence. While Nigeria's Child Rights Act prohibits physical punishment, enforcement remains weak, and many parents still view beating as an acceptable form of discipline.
Etinosa's remarks also coincide with growing public discourse on parenting in the digital age and the role of childhood trauma in shaping adult behaviour. Her call for breaking generational cycles resonates with psychological research showing that children who witness domestic violence are more likely to become abusers or victims themselves. By speaking out, Etinosa has positioned herself as a voice for breaking these cycles and raising a generation of emotionally healthy children. Whether her comments will spark meaningful change remains to be seen, but they have undeniably opened a necessary conversation about the responsibilities of parenthood and the long-term consequences of domestic violence.
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