Interview: Ned Nwoko speaks on Ooni of Ife’s new wives, talks reconciliation with 4th Wife, Laila and more

Businessman and former member of the House of Representatives Ned Nwoko, recently spoke on family issues including his similarity with the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, at his Idumuje-Ugboko country home in Delta State.

In a recent chat with the Guardian, the billionaire said he is serving Nigeria by marrying many wives.

Talking about him and the Ooni of Ife having several wives;

Nwoko said: “Let me tell you the similarity between me and the Ooni of Ife, apart from both of us having more than one wife, my grandfather and his grandfather were both in the House of Chiefs in the Old Western Region in the 1950s. They were part of the select few that went to London for the constitutional conferences.

My grandfather and the Ooni’s grandfather and the then Olowo of Owo took many photographs together. So, the Ooni and I have that kind of common background, because our grandfathers were kings and served Nigeria in that capacity. And we are now also serving Nigeria by having many wives.”

Nwoko, who is contesting the Delta North senatorial election, said some of his wives live in other parts of the world, noting that two are in New York, United States; two are in Nigeria and two are in Dubai, UAE.

“I have 19 children now. My first child is 30 years old. Those with my first wife are all graduates now. In fact, my last child with her made a first class last year in England,” he said.

Nwoko confirmed he has reconciled with his estranged wife Laila Charani after their spat early this year.

Speaking about his favourite wife, Nwoko explained, “Of course, the favourite is always going to be the last or latest wife (which is Regina). That’s a natural thing. You know it’s like if you have a new shirt, that is going to be your favourite one.”