SGF George Akume Ties the Knot with Former Ooni of Ife's Wife
In a significant social and political development, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has officially married Queen Zaynab Otiti-Obanor, who was previously married to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. The union, which has sparked considerable public interest, was confirmed by multiple sources close to the couple.
Family Confirmation and Celebratory Announcement
The marriage was publicly acknowledged by a member of the Dajoh family from Benue State, Abraham Double-d Dajoh, through a Facebook post on Friday. The post expressed immense joy and formally welcomed the new bride into the Akume and Dajoh family fold.
The statement read, "We, the entire Dajoh Family, happily join our daddy, uncle and brother, His Excellency, The Secretary To The Government Of The Federation, Sen. George Akume Jugu Dajoh in welcoming his new and uncommon wife, Queen Zaynab Ngohemba-George Akume Dajoh, into the Dajoh family."
The family extended gratitude to Akume's supporters and invited them to celebrate this new chapter. The post also warmly welcomed Queen Zaynab to Benue State, described as the Food Basket of the Nation, and specifically to Mbakor, which is recognized as the seat of leadership for the Tiv nation.
Timeline Clarification from Spokesperson
When contacted for verification, Akume's spokesman, Yomi Odunuga, confirmed the marriage to Punch newspaper on Friday. He provided a crucial clarification regarding the timing of the wedding, countering circulating reports.
Odunuga stated, "I can confirm the marriage. However, contrary to the rumour that the marriage was concretised in Gboko on Christmas eve... it was actually a marriage that is over a year old." This correction dispels the notion that the ceremony was a recent Christmas event, revealing that the union has been in existence for more than a year.
Background of Queen Zaynab Otiti-Obanor
Queen Zaynab, formerly known as Olori Wuraola during her time as the Ooni's wife, has had a notable marital history. Her marriage to the Ooni of Ife, which was her third, lasted for approximately 17 months before its dissolution. This new marriage to Senator Akume marks her fourth.
The union connects two prominent spheres of Nigerian society: high-level federal politics and traditional royalty. Senator George Akume, a veteran politician and former governor of Benue State, holds one of the most powerful appointed positions in the country as the SGF. The marriage has therefore been described by the family as an "uncommon" union, likely referencing the convergence of these distinct backgrounds.
The public announcement serves as an official confirmation of a relationship that has been established for some time, putting to rest speculation and solidifying the couple's status within Nigeria's social and political landscape.
