Shakib opens up on why he stopped following Zari on Instagram
By Steve Ireri, August 18, 2025Ugandan socialite Zarinah Hassan’s husband, Shakib Lutaaya, has for the first time addressed the lingering question of why he and the media personality do not follow each other on Instagram.
Speaking during an interview with SPM Buzz on Monday, August 18, 2025, Shakib, who is in Kenya, explained that they have not formally discussed the reasons behind the unfollow, noting that it has been a year since the move first occurred.
He added that his decision to unfollow was a reaction to Zari’s initial action, rather than a premeditated move.
“It has been about one year since we stopped following each other on Instagram. To be honest, I cannot explain the reason. I think the question of why we don’t follow each other is for her as well, and it is a tough one. We have never talked about it. My reason is that she unfollowed me first,” Shakib said.
Shakib also noted that while he would follow her back if she did the same, the matter is more complex than a simple social media action, highlighting that the situation remains unresolved in their personal discussions.
He insisted that the unfollowing should not be interpreted as a reflection of the state of their marriage, but rather a minor and nuanced aspect of their relationship in the public eye.
On that note, he acknowledged the attention the situation has generated on social media, where fans have debated the implications of their online behaviour.
“Well, it’s a tough question, but my reason is that she unfollowed me first. As for whether I would follow her today, I would, if she followed me. But again, it is a tough question,” he added.
The couple’s relationship, which began in May 2022 after Zari ended her previous relationship with GK Choppa, has long been under public scrutiny.
Zari and Shakib formalised their union in 2023, hosting both traditional and white wedding ceremonies.
Over time, their marriage has faced challenges, including Zari’s previous accusations of Shakib’s insecurity over her ex, Diamond Platnumz, as well as other public disagreements.
Cheating
The latest claims suggested that Shakib was cheating on Zari, prompting him to lash out at netizens who circulated the rumours.
In a detailed statement shared via his official social media pages in December 2024, Shakib clarified that, contrary to reports claiming he was involved romantically with multiple women, the individuals mentioned are in fact his valued clients and supporters of the King Cham Collection.
He emphasised that he has no romantic connection with them and has no intention of engaging in private relationships outside his marriage.
“Dear social media and fans, I would like to address a concerning issue regarding recent tabloid rumours that I’m having affairs outside my marriage. It has come to my attention that there have been fake stories circulating suggesting I’m cheating on my wife,” he said.
Shakib described the circulating reports as false and untrue, stressing that his love and commitment remain firmly with his wife, Zari.
He further appealed for understanding and respect from the public, noting that such false narratives not only misrepresent the truth but also threaten the integrity of his marriage.
“I want to make things clear, some women are valued clients and supporters of King Cham collection. They are not romantically involved with me, nor do I have any intentions of engaging in private relationships with them or any other women for that matter. As a married man, my love and commitment lie with my wife,” he said.