- The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, discussed the emotional challenges of polygamy.
- He shared insights in a viral video on social media.
- The monarch revealed a shift in his views on having multiple wives over time.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has spoken candidly about the emotional complexities of having multiple wives.
In a viral video circulating on social media, the monarch reflected on how his perception of polygamy has changed over time, admitting that he once criticized men who had several wives.
He explained that life often places people in situations they previously judged from a distance.
“I am always shy with the numerous wives I have because when I was younger, I used to abuse people with many wives and wonder how they cope, but see me doing same today,” he said.
Although he did not go into full detail about his reasons for embracing polygamy, the royal father suggested that his position and responsibilities as the custodian of Yoruba tradition play a significant role in his personal decisions.
He also noted that some matters concerning his private life may never be publicly disclosed.
In earlier public comments, the monarch had indicated that certain marital decisions were influenced by cultural expectations tied to the throne of Ile-Ife.
The Ooni’s royal household expanded notably in 2022 when he married six queens within a short period of about three months.
The queens include Mariam Anako, Elizabeth Akinmuda, Tobiloba Phillips, Ashley Adegoke, Ronke Ademiluyi, and Temitope Adesegun.