Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s ex-first minister, has revealed that she and her husband, Peter Murrell, have decided to part ways.
The pair first crossed paths in 1988 through their involvement with the Scottish National Party (SNP) and officially became a couple in 2003. They tied the knot in July 2010 at Oran Mor, a well-known venue in Glasgow.
In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram Stories, Sturgeon disclosed, “With a heavy heart I am confirming that Peter and I have decided to end our marriage.
“To all intents and purposes we have been separated for some time now and feel it is time to bring others up to speed with where we are.
“It goes without saying that we still care deeply for each other, and always will. We will be making no further comment.”
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Sturgeon’s announcement comes almost two years after she unexpectedly stepped down as first minister and SNP leader in February 2023, a role she had taken on following Alex Salmond’s departure after the 2014 independence referendum.
Peter Murrell, who served as the SNP’s chief executive since 2001, resigned in March 2023 amidst criticism over discrepancies in party membership numbers during the leadership race. Humza Yousaf eventually emerged as the party’s leader.
At the time, Murrell stated, “While there was no intent to mislead, I accept that this has been the outcome.”
In a separate development in April 2023, Murrell was arrested as part of an inquiry into the SNP’s financial dealings. He was subsequently charged with misappropriating party funds last year.
Meanwhile, Sturgeon and ex-SNP treasurer MSP Colin Beattie were also arrested and later released without charge during Police Scotland’s extensive Operation Branchform.
The investigation, which began in July 2021, revolves around approximately £600,000 raised by supporters to be allocated for pro-independence campaigning.
In September 2024, it was revealed that senior officers had sought advice from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) on the next steps in the probe.
Despite these challenges, Sturgeon maintains her innocence, firmly denying any involvement in wrongdoing.
In an interview last month, the Glasgow Southside MSP remarked that she knew “nothing more” about the ongoing investigation and was focused on navigating life “as best I can at the moment.”
The couple’s decision to separate marks the end of a significant personal and political chapter in Scotland’s recent history.
(THE GUARDIAN)
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE