Controversial post ignites fresh arguments as Nigerians question if multiple-partner marriages benefit women’s career growth

A social media post by a Lagos-based user, Abdulwahab Abubakar, has triggered a nationwide debate after he argued on X (formerly Twitter) that ambitious women may achieve more by entering polygamous marriages. The comment, posted on Saturday, has drawn sharp reactions from Nigerians across different backgrounds, with many challenging the suggestion that polygamy supports women’s career advancement.

The online discussion intensified after Abubakar, using the handle @AbdoollGiwa, wrote that “as a young lady aiming to attain the height of your professional career and personal goals, polygamy is the best option for you.” His statement quickly gained traction, especially in Lagos and other urban centres, as conversations about marriage and gender roles continue to dominate social platforms.

This renewed interest comes in the wake of Netflix’s series The Polygamist, which follows the story of Jonasi Gomora—a wealthy banker whose death reveals hidden wives and mistresses battling for his estate. The show’s portrayal of betrayal and power struggles within multiple-partner households has reignited public scrutiny of polygamy’s real-life effects on women and families in Nigeria.

Reactions have been mixed. Some critics argue that polygamy rarely reduces domestic responsibilities for women or creates genuine opportunities for growth. A respondent stated: “Because the moment a man feels he is financially secure he starts marrying multiple wives… we are supposed to keen into that?” Another added: “You assume she’ll have less marital responsibilities to focus on her career—forgetting she might face higher expectations if her co-wives are older or also career-minded.” Others linked women’s participation in polygamous unions to poverty, insisting that economic empowerment would lead to a decline in such arrangements.

However, a minority supported Abubakar’s view, accusing opponents of responding emotionally rather than objectively. One user asked: “Are your female family members in polygamous settings, and have they attained that height?” Another claimed: “Now watch how most ladies will fail to see the sense in this and argue from an emotional POV.”

While there is no consensus, the debate highlights deep divisions over marriage norms in Nigeria. The conversation continues online as Nigerians weigh whether polygamy can truly offer advantages for women pursuing personal and professional ambitions.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/polygamy-is-the-best-option-for-ambitious-women-nigerian-man-sparks-debate-2026062311292225406