Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has opened up about the role genotype played in his decision to marry, revealing that he considered it a major factor because he has the SS genotype.
The singer made the disclosure during a recent episode of the One54 Podcast, where he spoke about his relationship with fellow musician Simi and the importance of knowing a partner’s genotype before starting a family.
Adekunle Gold said he would not have proceeded with the relationship if Simi had an incompatible genotype. He stressed that, for him, the possibility of having children affected by sickle cell disease was a serious consideration that could not be ignored.
“I wouldn’t have married my wife if she were SS or AS. Forget love. I don’t think it makes sense to bring a child into this world and they would be sickly.”
The singer said determining Simi’s genotype was among the first things he sought to establish when they met. After learning that she was AA, he said he felt comfortable moving forward with the relationship.
“When me and my wife first met, the first thing I did was to know her genotype. She is AA. That was why I proceeded with the relationship.”
Adekunle Gold has become an advocate for sickle cell awareness since publicly revealing that he has the SS genotype. His comments have continued to draw attention to the importance of genotype testing and informed family planning.
The singer married Simi in January 2019, and the couple have two children. Their relationship has remained one of the prominent celebrity marriages in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
His latest comments have reignited discussions about genotype compatibility, sickle cell awareness and the decisions couples face when planning for marriage and children.
