Frank Edoho, the charismatic host of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (WWTBAM) in Nigeria, has shared how allegations of domestic violence nearly cost him his role on the show. Edoho opened up about this turbulent chapter of his life during a conversation on the WithChude podcast, reflecting on his first marriage to Katherine Obiang and the challenges they faced.
Edoho, who shares three children with Katherine, described their union as a “mismatch” and admitted both parties were responsible for their marital struggles. “My ex-wife was my friend, and there were children involved. I think ours was a mismatch. I was young, and when she got pregnant, I had cold feet, but I still got married,” he said.
The marriage, which lasted seven years, ended in 2010. Reflecting on their relationship, Edoho stressed the difference between friendship and marriage. “Being friends with the opposite sex doesn’t mean you should get married because that’s a different ball game. In hindsight, maybe I should have thought about it a bit more,” he explained.
He added, “She was my good friend, but I think it was love too. I also think we didn’t look at each other very well before we delved into it. I’m not going to say it was only her fault; it was my fault too, but not in the way people were depicting it.”
Domestic Violence Allegations and Career Threat
After their separation, rumors of domestic violence surfaced, painting Edoho as a “wife-beater.” The allegations, which began circulating in 2007, escalated and threatened his career as the host of the popular game show.
“That was one of the times I was very depressed, but I couldn’t say anything,” Edoho revealed. “The first crisis happened in 2007, but I still stayed on for three years. Then it got to a head in 2010, and I left.”
The rumors reached the sponsors of WWTBAM, prompting serious discussions about removing him from the show. “I was in the UK when my boss called me and said, ‘You need to come back to Lagos because the sponsors are hearing things about you. They said you’re not going to present this show anymore because of those rumors.’”
Fighting for His Career
Edoho recounted how he immediately returned to Nigeria to defend himself in a meeting with the sponsors. “I got on a flight the following morning. During the meeting, I explained everything, starting from when I was dating, to the marriage, and the birth of my children. By the time I reached certain points, two of the ladies in the room were crying.”
He continued, “I told them I have receipts and that nobody divorced me—I took my suitcase and left the marriage.” Edoho’s honest account of his struggles and the evidence he presented helped him retain his role on the show.
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Moving On
Since leaving his first marriage, Edoho has found love again. He married his second wife, Sandra Onyenuchenuya, on April 2, 2014, and has continued to thrive both personally and professionally.
While reflecting on his past, Edoho expressed gratitude for overcoming the challenges. His story serves as a testament to resilience and the importance of sharing one’s truth in the face of adversity.
A Lesson for All
Edoho’s experience sheds light on the complexities of relationships and the damaging effects of false narratives. He urged people to avoid rushing into marriage without understanding the challenges it brings, especially when children are involved.
His story also highlights the need for organizations to carefully assess allegations before acting, as such issues can have profound implications for individuals’ lives and careers.
Edoho’s openness has resonated with many, sparking conversations about relationships, accountability, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity.