Frank Edoho, the long-time host of the hit game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (WWTBAM), has shared how allegations of domestic violence nearly ended his career. Speaking on the WithChude podcast, Edoho opened up about his past marriage to Katherine Obiang, their struggles, and the false accusations that affected both his personal and professional life.
A Marriage Marked by Challenges
Edoho and Obiang were married for seven years and share three children. Reflecting on their union, the TV host described it as a “mismatch,” admitting that both he and his ex-wife bore responsibility for their challenges.
“My ex-wife was my friend, and there were children involved. I think ours was a mismatch; I was young. When she got pregnant, I had cold feet, but I still got married. It lasted seven years, and in 2010, I left. Three years after, I remarried,” he revealed.
Edoho acknowledged the difference between friendship and marriage, emphasizing the need for deeper understanding before committing to such a serious union. “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. I also think we didn’t look at each other very well before we delved into it.”
Domestic Violence Allegations and Career Impact
Following their separation in 2010, rumors of domestic violence began to circulate, threatening Edoho’s role as the host of WWTBAM. The allegations, he said, were particularly difficult because they were untrue and affected not just his reputation but also his livelihood.
“That was one of the times I was very depressed, but I couldn’t say anything,” Edoho recalled. “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 situation escalated to the point where the sponsors of WWTBAM expressed concerns, and Edoho’s job was at risk. He recounted being summoned to Lagos from the UK for a meeting to address the allegations.
“They said I’m not going to present this show anymore because of those rumors. I got on a flight the following morning to attend a meeting with them,” he said. At the meeting, Edoho explained his side of the story in detail, recounting the history of his relationship and marriage, and presenting evidence to refute the allegations.
“After listening to them, I told them I’ll tell them everything starting from when I was dating. By the time I reached marriage and the birth of my son and first daughter, two of the ladies were crying. I said nobody divorced me; I took my suitcase and left the marriage.”
Moving On
Despite the challenges, Edoho has moved forward with his life. He married his second wife, Sandra Onyenuchenuya, on April 2, 2014, and continues to enjoy a successful career. His story serves as a testament to resilience and the importance of addressing false narratives with clarity and evidence.
Lessons Learned
Edoho’s experience underscores the complexities of relationships and the far-reaching effects of public perception. It highlights the need for open communication, understanding in marriage, and the importance of standing firm against false accusations. As he continues his journey, Edoho remains a respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, celebrated for his talent and professionalism.
