Renowned Nigerian musician Teniola Apata, widely known as Teni, recently opened up about her deep-rooted affection for polygamous families, shedding light on her unique perspective shaped by her upbringing.
Reflecting on her formative years within a polygamous household, Teni shared her fond memories and the reasons behind her admiration for such familial dynamics. During a candid conversation on the Zero Conditions Podcast, the singer fondly reminisced about her childhood, revealing that her late father, who was married to three wives and fathered a total of 10 children, cultivated an environment of love and togetherness that she deeply cherished.
“I grew up in a polygamous family, surrounded by many loved ones where misbehavior was simply not an option. I was enveloped in love and shielded from harm. Three wives, 10 children – immense respect to my lineage! I share a great bond with all my siblings, albeit with varying degrees of closeness,” she expressed.
In a remarkably candid tone, she further emphasized her preference for the dynamic nature of a polygamous household, highlighting that the idea of a monogamous upbringing seemed mundane in comparison.
“For me, any other structure would just be insipid. If I were to relive this life, I would choose the same family without a second thought. How dull would it be to dwell in a monogamous setting, devoid of the vibrant chaos that shapes our lives?” she remarked.
Her colorful account delved deeper into the unconventional yet nurturing environment prevalent in her family, illustrating the bond forged through shared experiences and unique traditions. Teni imparted insight into the extraordinary nature of her family, underlining the unorthodox yet heartfelt displays of affection that defined their relationships.
“The love in my family is unparalleled, perhaps because the patriarch who brought us into the world was quite the character. Can you imagine the thrill of hearing gunshots and rallying to uncover their source? That’s just how we roll,” she chuckled. “It’s almost as if my father had meticulously planned for the future, even in his passing. Before he departed, he equipped his wives with a myriad of skills, including firearm proficiency, and upon his demise, they adeptly wielded those skills. It’s these very skills that have anchored our family even after his departure,” she revealed, painting a vivid picture of the resilience and unity embedded in her family’s legacy.
Teni’s heartfelt account casts a spotlight on the intricacies and warmth inherent in polygamous families, offering a glimpse into a world characterized by profound bonds and unconventional yet enduring traditions. Her narrative serves as a powerful testimony to the diversity and richness of family structures, transcending conventional norms and offering a refreshing perspective on love, resilience, and unity.
