Akon’s decades-long marriage to Tomeka Thiam is reportedly over and they have entered into a financial drama. After nearly 29 years together, Thiam filed for divorce from the global superstar last month. This month a new report claimed she is seeking about $116 million in support — only for a court to allegedly discover that the “Smack That” hitmaker had just $10,000 in his personal bank account. This claim, however, has not been confirmed.
The Divorce Drama
But the dubious claim has gone viral across social media. It has sparked widespread speculation about Akon’s true wealth and whether the singer could be strategically shielded his assets. According to reports circulating internationally, most of Akon’s reputed $50 million fortune may be under his mother’s name, a move reminiscent of the viral “Hakimi maneuver” popularized after Moroccan soccer player Achraf Hakimi was rumored to have done the same during his divorce.
While the reports have not been verified, the story has reignited curiosity about Akon’s financial empire. Akon (born Aliaune Badara Thiam) has long been known for his business ventures, including Akon Lighting Africa and the ambitious but troubled Akon City project in Senegal. In the past, he has claimed he had earned over $100 million during his career.
Court filings obtained by Billboard confirm that Thiam cited irreconcilable differences in her September divorce filing in Los Angeles. She is seeking joint legal custody and sole physical custody of their 17-year-old daughter, Journey, along with spousal support. Akon, 52, has not publicly responded to the proceedings.
The divorce brings rare attention to Akon’s personal life, which he has kept private despite ongoing speculation about his polygamous relationships. The artist, who has nine children, has previously stated that he considers polygamy part of his cultural heritage and maintains multiple households across the U.S. and Africa.
No, the world will have to wait as the divorce proceeds and financial documents become public — if they ever do — to find out just how much Akon is worth.
