Tomeka Thiam, the longtime wife of global music icon Akon, has filed for divorce after nearly 29 years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences.
The filing was made just three days before the couple’s anniversary on September 15.
Court documents obtained by The Lagos Times reveal that Thiam is seeking joint legal custody and sole physical custody of their 17-year-old daughter, Journey.
She is also requesting spousal support and has asked the court to deny Akon any claim to support from her.
The couple, who married in 1996, have largely kept their relationship out of the public eye. Akon, 52, has nine children and has previously spoken about polygamy, though he has never publicly confirmed the number of wives he has.
Thiam’s decision comes amid growing scrutiny of Akon’s personal and professional life, including delays and controversy surrounding his ambitious “Akon City” project in Senegal.
The futuristic city, once hailed as a beacon of innovation and African pride, has faced funding challenges and accusations of mismanagement.
Neither Akon nor Thiam has issued a public statement regarding the divorce. Representatives for the singer declined to comment.
The news has sparked widespread reaction across social media, with fans expressing shock and support for Thiam. As one user posted, “She stood by him for decades. Wishing her peace and strength.”
The divorce proceedings are ongoing in Fulton County, Georgia.
