Just three days before what would have marked their 29th wedding anniversary, Tomeka Thiam, the wife of singer Akon, has filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, according to court documents obtained by Billboard on September 12.
Tomeka is requesting joint legal custody and sole physical custody of the couple’s 17-year-old daughter, Journey, while also seeking spousal support from Akon (legal name: Aliaune Badara Thiam). Additionally, she has asked the court to deny any potential request for spousal support from him.
As of now, representatives for both Akon and Tomeka have not responded to requests for comment from E! News.
A Rare Glimpse into Akon’s Private Life
The divorce filing offers a rare look into Akon’s personal relationships. For years, the artist has faced speculation about practicing polygamy, though he has never confirmed nor denied the rumors.
“I’mma let it stay a rumor,” Akon said in a 2022 VladTV interview. “I like the fact that people are guessing. I love it.”
He continued, “Go online — you might see nine [wives], you might see seven, you might see four. I love it, though.”
Akon has previously stated that he has nine children — seven boys and two girls — which the divorce documents now confirm.
Fatherhood and Responsibility
While private about his romantic life, Akon has been more open about fatherhood. In a 2023 interview on The Zeze Mills Show, he compared his experience with that of Nick Cannon, who also has multiple children with different mothers.
“That’s how life is supposed to be,” Akon said. “Why not? [Nick’s] rich. He’s responsible. He takes care of every one of those children.”
He added, “The mothers are with it. They lack for nothing. They live comfortably. He’s there for every single one. I got nine [kids], and I’m there for every one of mine.”
