Nollywood veteran and family member, Rita Edochie, has come out strongly in defense of May Edochie, the estranged wife of actor Yul Edochie, amid calls by online trolls for her to stop using the Edochie surname.

In a fiery Instagram post, Rita tackled critics who have been urging May to drop the family name following her marital split with Yul. Rita not only lashed out at the trolls but also showered May with praise, calling her “Queen May.”

“Ndiala ndiala everywhere. Her name remains Queen May Yul Edochie even after the divorce because you did not give her the name,” Rita wrote, taking aim at those questioning May’s continued use of the name. “Why this so much hate on someone that doesn’t even know you exist? Pray for your own success and God will make you shine in your season too.”

She further encouraged her followers to avoid envy, reminding them that life’s journeys differ for everyone.

“Just like the sun and moon, we all have our own unique time to shine. Stop the unnecessary anger. Celebrate small wins, learn from setbacks and keep moving forward.”

Rita’s post quickly sparked reactions from fans who applauded her for standing by May.

@bensonokonkwo_official_ wrote: “Well said mum of life. I call her daughter of grace; she will keep moving, no stopping her.”

@royal_kiddies_1234 added: “As long as she has kids bearing that name, she’ll bear it till eternity.”

@onyekachi142 chimed in: “Even Anita Okoye still bears her husband’s name. Abeg leave my Queen May, I love her.”

@itz_realsuccessofficial noted: “If not for May, Yul Edochie would have faded from relevance. He should thank God for Queen May.”

Rita concluded her message by urging people to trust in God’s timing and stay patient, saying forcing things can lead to frustration.