A group of Christian leaders has disagreed with marriage guidance recently shared by Enoch Adeboye, saying cooking ability should not be treated as a deciding factor when choosing a wife.

Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, advised young men during the church’s May Holy Ghost Service to prioritise spiritual discernment and practical domestic skills over physical appearance when considering marriage. He warned that focusing on beauty alone could lead to regret and urged men to avoid marrying women who cannot cook.

His remarks drew a response from bishops under the Ecumenical Synods of Bishops, Archbishops, Apostles and Senior Clergy, who described the advice as a personal opinion rather than a biblical standard.

Speaking for the group, the international secretary, Osazee William, said character, faith, and values should carry more weight in marriage decisions than culinary skills. He noted that cooking can be learned and should not overshadow traits such as integrity and industriousness.

William also pointed to changing economic realities, explaining that many women now serve as breadwinners and may not always have time for domestic responsibilities. In such situations, he said, families can adopt practical solutions without turning cooking into a major marriage condition.

The bishops further argued that being a good cook does not necessarily reflect good character, adding that hygiene, moderation, and moral conduct are more meaningful qualities in a life partner.

In addition to his comments on cooking, Adeboye had advised men to reconsider wedding plans if their prospective spouse proposes a ceremony that could lead to debt. He also cautioned against excessive cosmetic enhancements, urging men to look beyond outward appearance.

While acknowledging Adeboye’s influence in the Christian community, the bishops maintained that his remarks should be seen as guidance rather than doctrine, encouraging couples to focus on broader virtues when choosing a partner.