TDIn a shocking turn of events, Nigerian music star Adekunle Gold has filed a petition for the dissolution of his marriage to fellow singer Simi, just ten days after the union was formally registered.
According to documents filed at the High Court of Lagos State, Family Court – Matrimonial Causes Jurisdiction, the petition (Suit No: HCL/FC/2024/0178) was submitted on February 28, 2026, seeking an immediate divorce.
Grounds for Divorce
Adekunle Gold, whose legal name is Adekunle Kosoko, stated that the marriage had “irretrievably broken down” due to:
- Continuous control and domination by the respondent in emotional, financial, social, and professional matters.
- The respondent’s insistence on being the “man of the house,” allegedly undermining his authority as husband.
- Emotional suppression and manipulation, which he described as toxic and unbearable.
Reliefs Sought
The petition requests:
- Dissolution of the marriage.
- Equitable division of marital assets.
- Joint custody arrangements, subject to agreement.
- Any other relief deemed fit by the court.
Public Reaction
The news has sparked widespread discussion across social media platforms, with fans expressing shock at the abrupt collapse of one of Nigeria’s most admired celebrity unions.
The couple, celebrated for their musical collaborations and public displays of affection, had long been seen as a symbol of love and partnership in the entertainment industry.
Observers note that the filing, coming less than two weeks after the marriage registration, marks one of the shortest-lived celebrity marriages in recent Nigerian history.
Quick bio about Adekunle Gold
Adekunle Gold, born Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko on January 28, 1987, is a Nigerian Afrobeats singer and songwriter popularly known as “AG Baby.”
He rose to fame with his 2015 hit single Sade and has since become one of Africa’s most celebrated contemporary music stars.
Early Life and Background
- Full Name: Adekunle Almoruf Kosoko
- Date of Birth: January 28, 1987 (age 39 as of 2026)
- Place of Birth: Lagos State, Nigeria
- Origin: Member of the Kosoko royal family in Lagos
- Musical Influences: Inspired by legends like King Sunny Ade and Ebenezer Obey, he began singing in his church choir as a teenager.
Career Highlights
- Breakthrough Single (2015): Sade, a highlife cover of One Direction’s Story of My Life, gained him widespread attention.
- Record Label: Signed with YBNL Nation in 2015, where he released his debut album Gold.
- Debut Album (2016): Gold debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard World Albums Chart, featuring hits like Orente and Pick Up.
- Evolution: Known for blending Afrobeats, highlife, and world music, Adekunle Gold has reinvented his sound over the years, moving from alternative highlife to global Afrobeats.
- Recent Work: Released Tequila Ever After in 2023 under Def Jam Recordings, followed by his sixth studio album Fuji in October 2025, which he described as “Finding Uncharted Journeys Inside.”
Personal Life
- Spouse: Married fellow Nigerian singer Simi in 2019.
- Nickname: Widely known as AG Baby, a moniker embraced by fans and used in his music branding.
Style and Identity
- Music Style: Rich vocals, highlife-inspired melodies, and Afrobeats rhythms.
- Fashion: Recognized for his bold, colorful, and artistic fashion sense, which complements his music identity.
Legacy and Impact
Adekunle Gold is celebrated for his versatility, creativity, and resilience.
From designing logos for YBNL Nation before his breakthrough to becoming a global Afrobeats star, his journey reflects artistic depth and reinvention.
He continues to headline international festivals, including the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam (2026), solidifying his place as a global ambassador of Nigerian music.
About Simi
Simi, born Simisola Bolatito Ogunleye on April 19, 1988, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, sound engineer, and actress, widely admired for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics.
She is married to fellow musician Adekunle Gold and has one child.
Early Life & Education
- Full Name: Simisola Bolatito Ogunleye (now Kosoko)
- Date of Birth: April 19, 1988 (age 37 as of 2026)
- Place of Birth: Ojuelegba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Education: Studied Mass Communication at Covenant University
Career Highlights
- Debut Album (2008): Ogaju – released as a gospel singer.
- Breakthrough (2014): Her single Tiff gained national recognition and was nominated for Best Alternative Song at The Headies 2015.
- Record Label: Signed with X3M Music in 2014, left in 2019 after contract expiration.
- Major Albums:
- Simisola (2017) – featured hits like Joromi and Smile for Me.
- Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1 (2019) – released on her 31st birthday.
- Studio Brat: Founded her own record label in June 2019.
- Nigerian Idol: Served as a judge on Season 7 in 2022.
Musical Style & Influence
- Genres: Afropop, soul, alt-rock, R&B, and world music.
- Signature: Known for her soft, emotive vocals and storytelling lyrics.
- Impact: Simi’s music often blends traditional Nigerian sounds with modern influences, making her one of the most versatile female artists in Africa.
Personal Life
- Spouse: Married Adekunle Gold in 2019.
- Children: One daughter.
- Public Image: Loved for her authenticity, simplicity, and relatable songwriting.
Legacy & Recognition
Simi is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most respected female artists, consistently praised for prioritizing meaningful music over trends.
Her artistry, independence, and calm personality have earned her a loyal fan base across Africa and beyond.
