International music star Akon has been hit with a personal challenge just days before celebrating a significant milestone in his private life.
The American singer-songwriter, rapper, and record producer’s wife, Tomeka Thaim, filed for divorce on Thursday, September 11, just four days before what would have been the couple’s 29th wedding anniversary.
In her court filing, Thaim cited irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split. She requested joint legal custody of their 17-year-old daughter, Journey, while asking for physical custody of the teenager, with Akon granted visitation rights.
Thaim also sought spousal support but asked the court not to award the “Smack That” hitmaker any support from her.
The filing did not specify the couple’s exact date of separation, listing it as “TBD.”Akon, whose real name is Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam, has not publicly responded to the divorce filing.
While the reasons for the separation remain unclear, the “Lonely” singer has previously sparked conversations with his controversial stance on relationships.
In a 2022 interview on The Zeze Mills Show, he revealed he practices polygamy and is father to nine children.
In 2023, musician Amirror also claimed she was one of Akon’s four wives, adding to ongoing speculation about his personal life.
Akon and Thaim married in 1996, marking nearly three decades together before the latest development.
