Nollywood star Iyabo Ojo has opened up about her unconventional relationship with music executive Paul Okoye, popularly known as Paulo, revealing that marriage is not part of their plans.
The actress, who is currently preparing for her daughter Priscilla’s upcoming wedding to Tanzanian singer Juma Jux, shared her thoughts during a candid appearance on TVC’s Your View.
While many fans have speculated about the future of her romance with Paulo, Iyabo made it clear that they are not walking down the aisle. “We don’t want marriage,” she stated firmly, adding that their relationship thrives because there’s no pressure to conform to traditional expectations.
According to the mother of two, the strength of their relationship lies in mutual understanding and the freedom they give each other. Iyabo emphasized that both she and Paulo are focused on their careers and cherish their independence.
“Because of the way I work, I am such a workaholic, and he is also a workaholic. That Igbo man likes to work,” she said, smiling. “For me, there are times when I want to be alone, and I just pack my bags and return to my house. We never fight over that because he understands.” She explained that their bond is built on respect and emotional maturity rather than rigid routines.
The actress further clarified that their arrangement works perfectly for them, despite what society might expect. She described a relationship where personal space and autonomy are just as important as companionship.
“We are both comfortable with this setup. We enjoy each other’s company, we support each other, but we also give each other breathing space,” Iyabo noted. “There’s no need for the pressure of planning weddings or expanding our family. We already have two kids each, and that’s more than enough.” She said their decision to forgo marriage wasn’t a result of past trauma but a conscious choice for peace of mind.
Iyabo first revealed her relationship with Paulo on December 21, 2022, during her 45th birthday celebration. She took to Instagram to post a heartwarming video collage featuring moments they had shared, effectively confirming the romance.
Since then, the couple has maintained a relatively low profile, choosing to keep their relationship drama-free despite the public spotlight. In a humorous interview a year after going public, Paulo joked about how Iyabo had “invaded his space” and “snatched him” from his former flings.
The lighthearted banter between them only fueled admiration from fans who appreciated their easygoing dynamic.
Ojo joined in the laughter during that interview, adding that their love story was never about starting a new family or ticking societal boxes. “It’s not about having kids or tying the knot. It’s about enjoying life together,” she said.
With both partners having experienced parenthood and public scrutiny in previous relationships, they now prioritize happiness, companionship, and mutual respect.
Iyabo’s refreshingly honest perspective challenges traditional norms and offers a new lens on what a fulfilling romantic relationship can look like—one that is based not on obligation but on choice.
