“Why Can’t a Man Wash a Plate?” — Teniola Aladese Slams Gendered Household Expectations

Nollywood actress Teniola Aladese has called out societal norms that place the burden of domestic chores primarily on women, describing the expectation as outdated and unfair.

Speaking during a recent appearance on the That’s What She Said vodcast, the actress questioned why household responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, and washing are still widely regarded as a woman’s duty rather than a shared obligation between partners.

Aladese expressed frustration over the persistent stereotype that men should only focus on work while women handle both professional and domestic responsibilities. She argued that many women now juggle careers and personal responsibilities, yet are still expected to take on the majority of household tasks.

“Why can’t a man wash a plate?” she asked, challenging the gender roles often reinforced in homes and society. She noted that women also work, hustle, and contribute financially, making it unreasonable to assume they should single-handedly manage all domestic duties upon returning home.

The actress emphasised the need for a more balanced and equitable distribution of household responsibilities, urging society to move away from traditional gender stereotypes and embrace shared domestic roles.