Nigerian stand-up comedian and TV host Teju Babyface, whose real name is Gbadewonuola Olateju Oyelakin, has sparked controversy with his message to couples on infidelity in relationships. According to Teju Babyface, if a partner cheats on their better half, it is best not to confess. “If you cheat on your wife or husband, but especially your wife, especially men, if you cheat on your wife, don’t tell her. Don’t confess. You cheat on your spouse, don’t tell them. Don’t ever do it,” Teju Babyface said in a video shared via his Instagram page.

The comedian argued that confessing to cheating by any of the partners can be catastrophic and damaging to a relationship. According to Teju, people who open up about cheating in relationships often do so to alleviate guilt rather than to be honest with their partner. “The reason you want to confess is not because you are honest; the reason is that the weight of guilt and a guilty conscience is killing you, and you are looking to share it with somebody,” he said.

“Confessing doesn’t heal, it only transfers your guilt and shatters their world. You’ve already broken their heart by cheating. Don’t break it twice,” he advised. Teju stressed that rather than open up to their partners, people who have been caught up in cheating should either speak with God or meet with a professional counsellor. “Everyone tells you to ‘come clean’ if you cheat. Even the Bible is often misquoted to back that up. But let me be clear: confession is to God, not to your spouse. When you confess to them, it’s not honesty. It’s manipulation. You’re just transferring your guilt and sabotaging your relationship. There is no benefit to them. All the benefit is yours,” he added.