Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has spoken about the importance of genotype compatibility in marriage, saying he would not have married his wife, Simi, if she had an SS or AS genotype.
The singer made the remark while discussing relationships, marriage and the responsibility couples have when making decisions that could affect their future children.
“I wouldn’t have married my wife if she were SS or AS. She’s AA. I don’t think it makes sense to bring a child into this world and they’d be sickly,” Adekunle Gold said.
His comment has drawn attention to the importance of genotype testing before marriage, particularly in countries such as Nigeria where sickle cell disease remains a significant public health concern.
Genotype refers to a person’s genetic makeup. In relation to sickle cell disease, people with the AA genotype do not carry the sickle cell gene, while people with AS carry one normal haemoglobin gene and one sickle cell gene. Individuals with SS generally have sickle cell disease.
When two people who carry the sickle cell trait have children, there is a possibility of having a child with sickle cell disease. This is why health professionals commonly encourage prospective couples to know their haemoglobin genotype and seek appropriate genetic counselling before making reproductive decisions.
Adekunle Gold’s remarks have consequently reignited conversations around genotype compatibility, premarital screening and the responsibilities couples should consider before starting a family.
The singer’s statement also reflects the personal decisions some couples make after learning their genetic status, although genotype compatibility is only one of several factors people consider when making decisions about marriage and having children.
The discussion has continued to generate reactions online, with many people sharing different perspectives on whether genotype should influence the decision to marry and how couples should approach the possibility of sickle cell disease in their children.
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