Nollywood Veteran Kanayo O. Kanayo Reignites Controversial Polygamy Discussion
Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has once again stirred significant controversy and sparked intense online debate with his provocative views on marriage traditions in African society. The respected actor reshared a clip from his 2025 appearance on the Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast with Isbea U, where he presented arguments that have divided opinions across social media platforms.
The Core Argument: Religious Pressure Over Personal Choice
Kanayo made the bold assertion that many Nigerian men choose to marry only one wife not because of genuine personal preference, but primarily due to external pressures from religious authorities. According to the actor, pastors and Reverend Fathers significantly influence marital decisions through their teachings and societal expectations.
The actor presented a compelling comparison between Western and African practices: "Many people have one wife because of what the pastor will say, what the Reverend Father will say, not because it is what they truly desire. What is called a mistress in the United Kingdom? In my cultural background, this is known as Iko - the official lady recognized by the wife, whom the husband visits regularly after work."
Kanayo continued with his critical analysis: "In Western societies, they maintain mistresses, yet when an African man takes a second wife here in Nigeria, he is immediately labeled as polygamous. Who exactly is deceiving whom? The time has passed when we should blindly follow foreign customs. Our African culture, as established by our forefathers, was well-managed and emphasized proper command and control structures."
Cultural Preservation and Authenticity
The Nollywood icon emphasized the importance of cultural preservation, arguing that monogamy represents an imported tradition that undermines authentic African cultural foundations. He pointed out that many practices from traditional African society find parallels within biblical texts, suggesting historical validation for polygamous arrangements.
In his accompanying social media caption, Kanayo reinforced his position with a clear message: "Africans should focus on their own cultural heritage. Be authentic and original. Different cultures define us uniquely - there is no universal solution that fits every society perfectly."
Social Media Backlash and Divided Reactions
The actor's comments generated immediate and passionate responses from followers and fans across various platforms. While some supported his cultural arguments, many expressed strong disagreement with his perspective on marriage traditions.
Critical responses included:
- User silky_martinz challenged: "Sir, just marry more than five wives and let's hear your practical experience."
- christianau3 questioned: "Is he seriously encouraging his own sons to maintain mistresses outside their marriages? This is concerning."
- thee_reading_goddess expressed dismay: "What exactly is this argument? Most individuals like this are better appreciated when they remain silent."
- im_chuma speculated: "Something suggests Mr. Kanayo might be cheating on his wife proudly - otherwise why hasn't he married a second wife himself? Sometimes aging individuals hide behind supposed wisdom to speak nonsense without restraint."
Historical Context and Previous Cultural Defense
This is not the first time Kanayo has defended traditional African practices against perceived Western influence. Previously, the actor came to the defense of his hometown, Mbaise in Imo State, when a viral video showed wedding negotiations collapsing over bride price demands.
On that occasion, Kanayo argued that bride price practices vary significantly across different Eastern communities and cautioned against broad generalizations about expensive demands in southeastern Nigeria. He emphasized the relativity of cultural practices and the importance of understanding regional variations.
The ongoing debate highlights deeper questions about cultural authenticity, modernization, and the tension between traditional practices and contemporary social norms in Nigerian society. As discussions continue across social media platforms, Kanayo's comments have undoubtedly reignited important conversations about marriage, culture, and personal choice in modern Africa.
