SGF Akume Marries Former Ooni’s Queen Zaynab

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has married Queen Zaynab, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, in a development that has drawn public attention across political and traditional circles.

The marriage, which was conducted privately, has sparked conversations due to the high-profile status of both parties. Akume, a former governor of Benue State and one of the most senior figures in the current administration, is a key political leader, while Queen Zaynab is well known for her previous role as a royal consort in Ile-Ife.

Sources familiar with the union said the ceremony was deliberately low-key, attended by close family members and a few associates, in line with the couple’s preference for privacy. No official photographs or detailed statements were immediately released, although confirmation of the marriage emerged from reliable circles close to the SGF.

Queen Zaynab was previously married to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, before their union ended several years ago. Since then, she has largely stayed out of the public spotlight, focusing on private life and personal pursuits. Her marriage to Akume marks a new chapter, bringing together two individuals from very different but influential backgrounds—politics and traditional royalty.

George Akume, 70, has had a long and distinguished career in public service. He served two terms as governor of Benue State between 1999 and 2007, later represented Benue North-West Senatorial District in the Senate, and currently serves as SGF, coordinating key activities of the Federal Government. He is regarded as one of the most experienced politicians in the country, with decades of involvement in governance and party politics.

The marriage has attracted varied reactions on social media and in public discourse, with many Nigerians offering congratulations, while others expressed curiosity about the union given the prominence of the individuals involved. Political associates of Akume described the development as a personal matter and extended goodwill to the couple.

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Traditional sources in Ile-Ife also noted that Queen Zaynab’s remarriage is in line with custom, as former royal consorts are free to remarry after the dissolution of their marriages.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the SGF nor his media office had issued an official statement on the marriage. However, close associates confirmed that the couple is settled and has requested respect for their privacy.

The union adds a notable personal milestone to Akume’s public life and has become one of the most talked-about high-society developments in recent days.