BY Grace Zigah
Tomeka Thiam, the wife of Senegalese-American music icon Akon, has filed for divorce after nearly three decades of marriage.
The divorce filing, submitted on September 11, cites irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split, just four days before their 29th wedding anniversary.
Divorce Filing
According to court documents obtained by Billboard, Tomeka is seeking joint legal custody of their 17-year-old daughter, Journey, but requests sole physical custody.
She is also seeking spousal support from Akon, whose legal name is Aliaune Badara Thiam, and has asked the court to block any possibility of him receiving spousal support.
Akon’s Response And Past Statements
Neither Akon nor Tomeka has publicly commented on the divorce filing. However, Akon has previously spoken about his views on marriage and family.
In a 2022 interview with VladTV, he mentioned that he has nine children and defended his lifestyle, stating that polygamy is part of his African culture.
Akon’s Family Life
Akon has been open about his role as a father, comparing his experience to that of Nick Cannon, who has 12 children with six women.
Akon emphasized the importance of being responsible and providing for his children, stating, “The baby mothers are with it. They hurt for nothing. And they live comfortably.
He’s there for every single one of those kids. I got nine and I’m there for every one of mine”.
Public Reaction
The divorce news has sparked reactions on social media, with many people expressing surprise and some siding with Tomeka for filing for divorce, considering Akon’s past infidelities.
The news offers a rare glimpse into Akon’s personal life, which has long been surrounded by speculation about his relationships.
