Nigerian music sensation Teniola Apata, popularly known as Teni, recently shared her deep affection for polygamous families, shedding light on the unique dynamics that shaped her upbringing.
During a candid conversation on the Zero Conditions Podcast, Teni fondly reminisced about her childhood experiences growing up in a polygamous household and expressed a preference for it over a monogamous setting.
The headline-grabbing singer, whose late father embraced a polygamous lifestyle by marrying three wives and having a total of 10 children, provided a rare insight into the intricate web of relationships and bonds that characterized her family life.
Teni’s narrative unfolded with a sense of pride and admiration for the unconventional structure that defined her formative years.
“I grew up in a polygamous family with many people, where you can’t do rubbish. I received a lot of love and protection. Three wives, 10 children.
Huge respect for my bloodline! I get along with all of my siblings, though there are levels of closeness,” Teni shared, her voice resonating with genuine warmth for her family.
Her assertion that any other way is “boring” may raise eyebrows, but for Teni, the vibrant chaos and intricate connections within her polygamous family were the essence of a fulfilling upbringing.
The singer painted a picture of a lively household where the sheer number of family members ensured that there was never a dull moment.
“Any other way is boring. If I come back to this life again, I want to come to the same family. How can I be in a monogamous house where all of us will be sitting down; no chaos?” she exclaimed, challenging societal norms with a hint of humor.
Teni’s fondness for her family’s unique dynamics extended beyond the everyday interactions.
She shared a remarkable anecdote that showcased the unconventional skills her late father imparted to the family, skills that, in an unexpected turn of events, played a crucial role in keeping the family intact after his passing.
“There is love in my family because the person wey born us dey craze sha. Do you know what it is to hear gunshots and go to where the gunshots came from? That’s not normal,” Teni explained, recounting an incident that spoke volumes about her family’s resilience.
“It was like my father planned his future and his death. So before he died, he taught his wives everything, including how to shoot, and when he passed, they used the skill. That’s how our family is still able to remain intact even after my dad’s death,” she revealed, highlighting the unexpected strength derived from her family’s unorthodox yet closely-knit structure.
In a society that often views polygamy with skepticism, Teni’s candid and affectionate account of her polygamous upbringing challenges preconceived notions.
Her story is a testament to the idea that unconventional family structures can foster love, resilience, and unity, transcending societal expectations.
As Teni continues to make waves in the music industry, her openness about her roots adds another layer to the multifaceted personality behind the microphone.
