Zaynab Ngohemba, formerly known as Zaynab Otiti Obanor, has publicly detailed the reasons behind her marriage to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume. The union, which became public knowledge on December 26, 2025, is described as a mature partnership built on shared values and a commitment to service.
A Union Forged in Maturity and Shared Purpose
In a statement issued by her media aide, David Adeoye, Zaynab clarified that her decision to marry Senator Akume was not about personal reinvention. Instead, she framed it as a reinforcement of core principles both individuals already embodied. "It is a partnership shaped by maturity, shared purpose, and an understanding that personal stability strengthens public duty," the statement read.
She emphasized that in an era where public life is often sensationalized, their marriage offers a narrative grounded in substance rather than spectacle. The former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, highlighted that the partnership represents the convergence of two lives devoted to public purpose, underpinned by humility, discipline, empathy, and responsibility.
Public Debut and Pledges to Benue State
The couple made their first official appearance together during Akume's 72nd birthday celebration in Gboko, Benue State. The event commenced with a thanksgiving service at St John the Baptist Cathedral.
In a video that quickly went viral, Zaynab addressed the people of Benue State, asserting her connection to them. "I'm here today not as a visitor but as the daughter of this land, by extension, married to Senator George Akume," she stated. She acknowledged the challenges faced by residents and pledged, "We understand your pain. I'll do everything possible so that you're all back to your normal lives."
During the same event, the SGF stressed the importance of accountability at all government levels as a foundation for sustainable development, according to a release from his office's Director of Information, Segun Imohiosen.
Context and Reactions to the Marriage
The marriage has attracted significant attention due to the profiles of both individuals. Zaynab Ngohemba was previously married to the Ooni of Ife in 2016, a union that ended the following year.
In a related development, Akume's first wife, Regina Akume, who serves as the House of Representatives member for Gboko/Tarka Federal Constituency, publicly advised the SGF to recommit fully to Christianity. Speaking at the wedding reception of their son, Samuel Aondoakura Akume, in Makurdi, she attributed her husband's success to his Christian faith.
"I pray that the Lord will increase his years, good health of mind and body... And he should remember that he is a Christian, and it is Christianity that brought him this far," Regina stated. She added, "To drop Christianity now and go for anything else, he will not be successful. So my advice to him is to come back to Christianity and follow the line of Christ."
Meanwhile, religious leaders at the birthday event, like Bishop Isaac Dugu, framed the occasion as a potential turning point for both Benue State and Nigeria at large.
Zaynab's statement concluded by reflecting on the nature of true leadership and impact, suggesting that the most meaningful societal contributions often come from those who work quietly, guided by values rather than the pursuit of validation.
