Toke Makinwa Sparks Online Frenzy with Comments on Becoming a 3rd, 4th or 5th Wife
Media personality and lifestyle entrepreneur Toke Makinwa is once again at the center of public discourse following her jaw-dropping remarks in a recent interview. The TV star, known for hosting The Voice Nigeria and her own reality series Toke Moments, revealed that she is now open to being a third, fourth, or even fifth wife—as long as she gets to share a last name with someone.
The unexpected statement marks a striking shift from her previously stated views on love, marriage, and independence, particularly following her highly publicized 2016 split from ex-husband Maje Ayida. Unsurprisingly, her comments have ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, sparking fresh debates about gender roles, polygamy, and celebrity culture in Nigeria.
At this stage in my life, I don’t even mind being someone’s third, fourth, or fifth wife,” Makinwa said during the interview. “I just want to add someone’s last name to mine.
Public Reaction: Praise, Criticism, and Receipts
Shortly after clips of the interview surfaced online, critics and fans alike took to platforms like Twitter (X) and Instagram to weigh in. Some social media users expressed disappointment, accusing Toke Makinwa of contradicting the independence-focused message she has long championed.
Many pointed to her past posts encouraging women to “live their best life” without needing a man—posts that are now being reposted with added scrutiny. See trending reactions on Twitter
“She told us to boss up and be independent, now she wants to be wife number five?” wrote one user. Another posted screenshots of old tweets where Makinwa emphasized the importance of emotional self-sufficiency and career-driven living.
On the flip side, others have come to her defense, suggesting her change in stance may reflect personal growth or simply a different outlook shaped by age and experience. “She’s allowed to change her mind,” one fan commented. “We all evolve. This doesn’t make her a hypocrite.”
A Lifestyle Under the Spotlight
Known for her glamorous fashion sense and bold personality, Toke Makinwa has built a brand on confidence, independence, and female empowerment. From red carpet appearances to hosting top-tier events, she has remained a fixture in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and a prominent voice in lifestyle and relationship conversations.
Makinwa also runs multiple businesses, including a luxury handbag line and skincare products. Her financial independence has been part of her personal narrative for years, making her recent openness to polygamous marriage all the more surprising to some followers. More on her business empire via BusinessDay
Her candid remarks may not just be a personal statement—they could also be a reflection of wider societal shifts in Nigeria.
The Cultural Context: Polygamy and Power
The debate stirred by Makinwa’s comments also touches on the broader cultural acceptance of polygamy in Nigeria. In many traditional and even elite circles, multiple marriages are still seen as a norm.
High-profile unions such as that of actress Regina Daniels and billionaire politician Ned Nwoko are often cited as examples of how polygamy intersects with wealth and celebrity.
In Nigeria’s Muslim communities and some southern tribes, polygamy remains legal and relatively common. However, among the urban middle class and modern elites, it is often a controversial topic—especially for women. Read more on polygamy laws in Nigeria from The Conversation
“Toke’s comment is not isolated,” said sociologist Dr. Remi Adebayo from the University of Lagos. “There’s increasing visibility of polygamous arrangements among affluent men and even growing acceptance among women who prioritize social and financial stability over monogamy.”
Relationship Status and Public Perception
While Makinwa has not publicly disclosed any current romantic partner, her recent statements have reignited speculation around her love life. In a previous episode of her show Toke Moments, she admitted to feeling the pressure of societal expectations regarding marriage and settling down.
“I’m constantly asked when I’m going to remarry,” she said during the 2023 season finale. “And I get it—people are curious. But it’s my journey, not theirs.”
Whether her latest remarks are a sign of deeper introspection or simply a controversial soundbite, it’s clear that Toke Makinwa remains a central figure in Nigeria’s evolving conversations about relationships, womanhood, and self-definition.
A Brand Built on Controversy?
Makinwa has never shied away from controversy, and some observers believe her bold statements may be part of her long-standing media strategy. In the age of social engagement and digital influence, a single viral moment can translate into greater visibility—and revenue.
“She knows how to command attention,” said PR expert Tonye Asemota. “From her book On Becoming to her viral tweets, Toke Makinwa understands that controversy sells—and she’s leveraged that brilliantly.”
Indeed, her memoir On Becoming, which chronicled her troubled marriage and personal reinvention, remains one of the best-selling celebrity books in Nigeria.
Check out On Becoming on Amazon
