Lead pastor of Harvesters International Christian Centre, Bolaji Idowu has shared his personal story of growing up in a polygamous home, where he had a strained relationship with his father.
In a recent episode of the ‘WithChude’ podcast, Idowu recalled how his stepmother would prevent him from interacting with his dad, creating a sense of distance and rejection.
Idowu shared a memory of hiding from his father, who had unexpectedly visited his uncle’s home with his stepmother.
He said his uncle advised him to leave immediately, and Idowu walked home, feeling rejected and crying.
As a child, Idowu said he struggled to understand these complex situations, leading to feelings of low self-worth.
Idowu reflected on his experiences, saying, “I have been a victim of emotional issues. Just my background. I was raised without a father. I have no memory of my father hugging me,” he said.
“I came from a polygamous background and it was so bad because of the arrangement it was in the family. If my father is in a place and I am with him, if my step-mum steps into that same place I have to go. That she cannot set her eyes on me.
“So, just imagine how a seven-year-old child interprets that. The thing about being a child is that you cannot interpret the complexities of what goes on in life.
“I remember I was just about eight or nine and I had gone to see my uncle. They stayed in this lovely house. And my father pulled a surprise visit with my step-mum. I had not seen him for like three or four months.
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“My uncle just said the word to me that ‘your dad and your step-mum are here, get going now. I could not even have the opportunity to see my dad. I could not afford the driver. I remember I walked home that day because I did not know how to use the bus system. I cried because I felt rejected that I was not good enough.”
He emphasised the importance of the Church’s role in praying for the restoration of souls, particularly for individuals struggling with emotional issues.
“The church must pray for the restoration of souls, particularly for those struggling with emotional issues,” he noted.
