Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has officially confirmed his marriage to Queen Zaynab Ngohemba, formerly a consort of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. The union, which recently garnered significant public attention following a social media announcement, was clarified by Akume’s spokesman as having taken place over a year ago, predating the recent festive season buzz. This development marks a notable personal chapter for the high-ranking government official and a prominent former royal figure.
The formal public acknowledgement of their marriage coincided with a celebratory welcoming ceremony held in December at the Dajoh family home in Mbakor, Benue State. Members of Akume’s family officially received Queen Zaynab into their fold, signifying her integration into their ancestral lineage. This event, initially brought to light by a Dajoh family member on social media, prompted widespread discussion across Nigeria’s social and political landscape.
Senator George Akume, a veteran politician and influential figure in Nigeria’s current administration, holds the pivotal role of Secretary to the Government of the Federation under President Bola Tinubu. His extensive political career includes serving as a former Governor of Benue State, solidifying his stature as a key player in the nation’s governance. His personal life, particularly this high-profile marriage, inevitably attracts considerable public and media scrutiny, given his national prominence.
Queen Zaynab Ngohemba brings her own distinguished background to this union. She was previously known as Olori Wuraola during her marriage to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, a union that lasted 17 months and concluded in 2017. Beyond her royal connections, Queen Zaynab is also recognised as a humanitarian, contributing to various social causes and maintaining a public profile that extends beyond traditional royal circles.
The Dajoh family, through a widely circulated social media statement, expressed profound joy and described the union as both “beautiful” and “uncommon.” Their message underscored the significance of welcoming Queen Zaynab into their heritage, particularly within Mbakor, which they described as “the seat of leadership of the Tiv nation” in Benue State. This public affirmation from the family highlighted the cultural reverence and collective embrace surrounding the marriage.
The family’s statement further extended gratitude to Senator Akume’s political associates and supporters, urging their continued loyalty and backing as he embarks on this new personal journey. They emphasised the importance of community and steadfast support, reflecting the deeply intertwined nature of personal milestones and public life for figures of Akume’s standing. The announcement, released during the festive period, also included good wishes for the holiday season to all Nigerians.
The news of this marriage, involving two individuals with significant public profiles—a top government official and a former royal—has naturally become a major talking point. It resonates across various segments of Nigerian society, sparking conversations on tradition, modernity, and the personal lives of public figures. The clarification regarding the timing of the marriage, coming from Akume’s spokesman, aimed to temper speculative narratives that had emerged.
Yomi Odunuga, Akume’s spokesman, confirmed the nuptials but specifically addressed the erroneous reports suggesting a Christmas Eve wedding in Gboko. He clarified that while the couple appeared together at a Christmas event, the marriage itself was solemnized more than a year prior. This distinction is crucial for understanding the timeline of events and managing public perception surrounding the union.
The Dajoh family’s elaborate welcome and public declarations reinforce the cultural importance placed on family and marital unions within Nigerian society, particularly when involving prominent individuals. Their joyous reception of Queen Zaynab into their ancestral home in Benue State serves as a public declaration of acceptance and celebration, aligning with traditional customs of integrating new spouses into the family fold.
This union not only signifies a personal milestone for Senator Akume and Queen Zaynab but also briefly shifts the spotlight from political discourse to matters of personal life and cultural heritage. The blend of high-level government involvement, royal lineage, and a public welcoming ceremony creates a compelling narrative that has captured national attention, underscoring the enduring public interest in the lives of Nigeria’s influential figures.
