A Nigerian man, Jacob, has approached a Grade A Customary Court in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, seeking the dissolution of his marriage to his wife, Mercy. In his testimony before the court, Jacob cited unkindness, false accusations, and threats to his life as grounds for the divorce.
Financial Hardships and Lack of Support
Jacob told the court that Mercy, despite being financially comfortable, failed to support him during his financial difficulties. He recounted several occasions when he went to bed hungry while his wife had enough money to provide for the household but chose not to assist him.
“We had a wonderful relationship, and our home was peaceful and happy. However, things changed after I suffered a financial setback. My once loving and caring wife suddenly became a source of distress to me,” Jacob testified.
Accusations of Diabolical Practices
Jacob further alleged that Mercy accused him of using charms to have intimate relations with her and to siphon her fortune. He described her conduct as heartbreaking and humiliating.
“Mercy alleged that I used charms whenever we slept together and that I was draining her fortune. She constantly harassed and threatened me, denying me peace of mind,” Jacob stated.
Denial of Access to Children
The plaintiff also claimed that Mercy had consistently denied him access to their children. He said that after leaving the matrimonial home due to the unbearable atmosphere, his wife refused to answer his calls and attacked him when he visited to see their children, damaging his mobile phone.
“Since then, Mercy has denied me access to our home and our children. The last time I visited to see our children, she attacked me and damaged my mobile phone,” Jacob told the court.
Wife Consents to Divorce
In her response, Mercy consented to the divorce. Jacob, who married Mercy in 2012 and paid a bride price of N2,500, pleaded with the court to dissolve the marriage, grant him custody of their children, and restrain his wife from threatening or harassing him.
“I am exhausted by my wife’s hostility. I respectfully plead with the court to dissolve our marriage,” Jacob said.
Court Adjourns for Further Hearing
Following the testimony, the court president, Mrs. O. E. Owoseni, adjourned the case for further hearing. The court will consider the evidence and make a ruling on the dissolution, custody, and restraining order.
