- – Former Big Brother Naija stars, including Bambam, Maria, Nina, and Chomzy, have made headlines for marrying previously divorced partners.
- – These marriages, often amidst controversy and public check, have resulted in happiness and stability for the couples, with some experiencing the joy of starting a family.
- – The choices made by these reality TV stars reflect the diverse paths taken in search of love and fulfillment, offering insights into the complexities of modern relationships formed in the spotlight.
The marital status of former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) stars, particularly the female contestants, continues to be a topic of considerable interest. In the high-stakes world of reality TV, the bonds formed often transcend the confines of the show, and many participants seek to secure relationships that thrive beyond the camera’s gaze. Notably, several BBNaija stars have chosen to wed previously married and divorced partners, sparking debate and curiosity about the nature and success of such unions.
The role of affection in reality TV marriages
Participants in the Big Brother Naija show frequently adopt strategies centred on affection and romance. These tactics, while boosting their visibility and fan base, sometimes blur the lines between genuine emotion and game-playing. Post-show, the decision to remain with a partner who has a history of marriage—often with the baggage of past relationships—can be contentious. However, despite these complexities, certain BBNaija alumni have found happiness by embracing these so-called “secondhand” partners.
Our research identifies four notable former housemates who have entered into marriages with previously divorced individuals, despite the controversies that accompany such decisions
Oluwabamike “Bambam” Olawunmi
First on our list is Bambam, a participant from BBNaija Season 3, also known as “Double Wahala.” Following the show in 2018, Bambam married her co-star and love interest, Temidayo “Teddy A” Adenibuyan. Teddy A had reportedly been in a previous relationship that produced a son. While some sources suggest that Teddy A’s previous union wasn’t legally formalized, the presence of a child and the ex-partner’s claims lent credibility to the notion that they shared a significant relationship.
Despite the initial controversy and public scrutiny during the Double Wahala season, Bambam and Teddy A pursued their relationship, culminating in a joyous marriage in 2019. The couple now enjoys a blissful married life, enriched by the birth of their two children.
Maria Chike Benjamin Agueze
Next is Maria, a star from BBNaija Season 6, “Shine Ya Eye.” The former flight attendant, originally from Imo State and who spent much of her youth in Dubai, became romantically involved with Kevin Anene, a man previously married. This romance became public in 2021 and was confirmed by Maria in 2022 amid swirling rumours.
The relationship faced heavy criticism when Kevin’s friend and showbiz figure, Cubana Chief Priest, accused him of leaving his wife, Maryanne, for Maria, suggesting that Maria had disrupted their marriage. Despite these allegations, Kevin and Maria have solidified their bond, culminating in a secret marriage ceremony and the arrival of their first child in 2023.
Nina Chinonso Onyenobi
The former BBNaija “Double Wahala” contestant Nina also finds herself on the list of stars married to divorced partners. Initially, Nina married Anthony Ifeanyi Anoliefo, known as Mr Tosh, with whom she shares a son, Denzel Kenechukwu Anoliefo, born in July 2020.
However, this marriage lasted only two years, with Nina subsequently marrying Chris Miller in October 2022. Reports suggest that Nina’s decision to divorce Mr Tosh was influenced by allegations of financial misconduct against him in the United States. Since remarrying, Nina and Chris Miller have kept their personal life largely out of the public eye.
Esther Chioma “Chomzy” Ndubueze
Chomzy, from BBNaija Season 7 “Level Up,” is another alumnus who has married a previously married man. Her partner, Rich Figo, was initially married to a woman named Precious, with whom he shares a child. Rumours about Chomzy and Rich’s relationship began circulating in June 2023, amidst allegations of Figo mistreating Precious, ultimately leading to their divorce proceedings.
During this emotionally charged period, Rich and Chomzy developed a closer bond, resulting in their traditional marriage in December 2023. The couple publicly confirmed their union with celebratory posts on their Instagram pages, showcasing photos from their marriage ceremony.
The marital choices of these BBNaija stars underscore the diversity of paths taken in search of happiness and stability. Marrying a previously divorced partner might be unconventional for some, but for others, it represents an opportunity for newfound love and fulfilment. By highlighting these stories, we aim to broaden the understanding of the complexities and nuances in modern relationships, particularly those formed in the spotlight of reality television.
