Entertainment of Wednesday, 15 October 2025

Polygamy is a tool for peace - Ali Baba

Veteran Nigerian comedian Atunyota Akpobome, popularly known as Ali Baba, has shared his perspective on the long-standing debate about polygamy, suggesting that it can foster peace and stability when practiced responsibly.

Speaking during an interview with media personality Nedu, the comedy legend explained that polygamy, far from being a source of chaos, can actually help reduce infidelity and tension within families if handled with maturity.

Ali Baba argued that many men resort to cheating because monogamy places certain restrictions on them, while polygamy offers a more structured and transparent alternative.

He said: “Some people feel if it’s only one wife, you may not be able to control the wife. But if the wife knows that you have more than one, she will calm down because she knows that if she misbehaves, another person is available.”

According to him, responsible polygamy discourages secret affairs and helps maintain harmony among spouses when mutual respect and understanding exist.

Drawing from historical and cultural contexts, Ali Baba explained that polygamy was once widely accepted—and even supported—within traditional African societies.

He recounted a real-life story from Ibadan, where a woman advised her husband to take another wife instead of keeping mistresses.

“I actually know of a woman in Ibadan who encouraged her husband to be a polygamist.

Most of them back then would even marry a young girl and gift her to the husband because they didn’t want the man to have concubines,” he revealed.

Ali Baba further emphasized that polygamy in traditional Africa wasn’t just about pleasure or status but often about responsibility and protection.

He explained that men sometimes married their late brother’s widow to ensure that she and her children received continued support.

He concluded by saying:

“Critics often forget that many men today have children outside of wedlock. So instead of pretending, the traditional system made it structured and responsible.”

Watch the full interview below