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| Nollywood Actress, Rita Edochie and Late Mr Ibu |
Nollywood actress Rita Edochie has criticised polygamy, saying the ongoing property dispute within the family of late comic actor Mr Ibu underscores the long-term consequences of the practice.
Naija Brain reports that Mr Ibu's widow, Stella Maris, and some of the late actor's children from previous relationships have been embroiled in a public dispute over the sale of his properties.
Reacting to the controversy in a post on Instagram, Rita Edochie argued that the situation reflects the challenges often associated with polygamous family structures.
According to the actress, regardless of how polygamy is defended on cultural grounds, it has contributed to division, inheritance disputes and prolonged conflicts in many families.
She wrote: "The late Mr Ibu did not do well at all. No matter how we try to sugarcoat polygamy or paint it as a cultural success story, it does not change the fact that it has been one of the greatest marital errors that has jeopardised the peace, unity and harmony of countless families.
"Every single day, I keep seeing more reasons to detest and despise polygamy. It is not something I would ever wish on my worst enemy. Time and again, life keeps presenting fresh evidence that where polygamy exists, peace is constantly under threat, while division patiently waits for its opportunity.
"Polygamy has been defended for generations, yet the painful outcomes continue to repeat themselves—rivalry, jealousy, unhealthy competition, bitterness, divided loyalties, inheritance disputes and prolonged family conflicts have become common stories in polygamous homes. The most painful part comes after the head of the family is gone.
"The situation currently playing out in Mr Ibu's family has become another painful reminder of how difficult such family structures can become. The public disagreements among family members over properties and other issues are heartbreaking to watch. While every family has its own unique circumstances, this should serve as a serious warning to those who are currently in polygamous homes or are planning to build one."