Why my father married 30 wives, gave birth to 108 children — Gov. Nwifuru

Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has revealed that his father, Ezekiel Nwifuru Nwankpu, married over 30 wives due to the intimidation and humiliation he suffered in his community.

Nwankpu originally married over 30 wives, but some were delisted from the family for not bearing children, leaving 19 wives. Currently, he has 17 wives and 108 children, 21 of whom, including Governor Nwifuru, are university graduates.

The governor explained that his father became wealthy unexpectedly through his hard work as a notable farmer, which led to envy, intimidation, and humiliation from members of their Agbaja community.

Nwifuru made the remarks at the weekend during the coronation of his father as the traditional ruler of the newly created Oferekpe Agbaja autonomous community.

The community, comprising 17 villages, was created this year following a law passed by the Ebonyi State House of Assembly. It was carved out of the Agbaja community.

The coronation ceremony was attended by former governors Sam Egwu, Martin Elechi, and David Umahi, as well as other state stakeholders.

Addressing the crowd, Governor Nwifuru described his father as a hardworking man who had been humiliated by relatives, neighbours, and the entire community due to his success.

According to the governor, this ostracisation prompted his father to marry multiple wives as companions and helping hands in achieving his dreams.

He further praised his father’s hospitable nature, noting that he loves his wives, children, relatives, and neighbours. He highlighted that 21 of his siblings are now graduates.

“My father’s decision to marry many wives was influenced by the intimidation and humiliation he endured from villagers in his quest for greatness,” he said.

The governor urged his father to use his position as a traditional ruler to foster peace, equity, and justice within the community, advising him not to retaliate against those who wronged him in the past.

“Do not use this revered position to seek revenge or perpetuate injustice. Rather, let it be a symbol of unity, fairness, and service to humanity,” Nwifuru said.

(Sun)