Nigerian billionaire Jite Odeworitse Tesigimoje has ignited extensive debate after marrying his 19th wife in a lavish ceremony.
The 43-year-old businessman from the oil-rich Delta State is a prominent and unapologetic advocate for polygamy. Photos from his latest wedding quickly went viral, sparking conversations about culture, love and modern masculinity.
In an interview with Nigeria’s The Nation newspaper, the oil mogul outlined his philosophy, framing his marital choice as a direct critique of Western norms.
He stated, “Colonialists told us monogamy is the best way of life. Yet those same people are caught daily in scandals. Why sneak around? Why live in lies?”
He added that polygamy is better than deceiving several women outside marriage.
The billionaire in local currency, the Naira, further revealed that his household is a reflection of Nigeria’s diversity and unity, as he is married to women from several of the country’s major ethnic groups, including Igbo, Yoruba, Fulani and his Itsekiri ethnic group.
‘Harmonious marriage’
Though he champions polygamy, Tesigimoje admits that marrying more than one wife is not meant for everyone, stating that it requires “enormous financial strength and emotional intelligence.”
Revealing the scale of his provision, the billionaire said that his wives in Nigeria’s Lagos city each live in a five-bedroom home and receive hefty allowances.
The key to harmony, he insists, is absolute fairness. Tesigimoje says, “Once I do something for one wife, all of them must get the same treatment.”
The oil mogul emphasised that this equity sustains peace in his household. He also hinted at marrying a 20th wife.
Although polygamy is common across in Africa, it is rare for men to marry as many wives as Tesigimoje has done. The number of his children is not clear.
Tesigimoje’s lifestyle, supported by his vast wealth and a strict code of conduct, presents a model of polygamy that challenges conventional views on marriage and family.
However, many commentators have criticised his choice, saying it reinforces patriarchal norms, which could hinder the general economic well-being of the society.
