Custody Battle Emerges as Singer Responds to Estranged Wife Tomeka Thiam’s Divorce Filing

Singer Challenges Wife’s Request for Sole Custody

November 18, 2025: Musician Akon has formally responded to his estranged wife Tomeka Thiam’s petition for divorce, requesting joint legal and physical custody of their 17-year-old daughter, Journey. The filing marks a key development in the high-profile separation, which was initiated by Thiam in September, just days before the couple’s 29th wedding anniversary.

According to court documents  Thiam’s initial filing cited “irreconcilable differences” and requested the court grant her sole legal and physical custody of Journey, with Akon receiving visitation rights.

Akon’s response directly challenges this, seeking to share both the legal authority to make decisions for their daughter and the time spent with her, indicating a potential custody dispute as the divorce proceeds. Journey, born in 2007, is the only child the couple shares who is still a minor.

Dispute Over Spousal Support

In addition to custody, the court filings reveal a disagreement over finances. Tomeka Thiam had requested spousal support from Akon, while also asking the court to prevent Akon from being awarded any support payments from her.

Akon’s recent response addresses this, with the singer explicitly asking the court not to award his estranged wife any spousal support.

A Long and Unconventional Marriage

Akon, whose full name is Aliaune Badara Thiam, and Tomeka Thiam were married in 1996. The separation has drawn attention to the singer’s previously public statements about his family life. Akon has been open about his belief in polygamy, stating in past interviews that it aligns with his African culture.

While Akon’s full family structure has been a subject of public discussion, Tomeka has been his legal wife for nearly three decades. The divorce proceedings will now move forward to address the contested issues of custody for their teenage daughter and spousal support.