A woman identified as Dotun has approached the Grade A Customary Court in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, seeking the dissolution of her marriage to Waheed, citing irresponsibility, neglect, and battery.
Woman Alleges Sole Responsibility for Family Upkeep
Dotun told the court that Waheed had failed to fulfill his responsibilities toward her and their children. She claimed she had been solely responsible for feeding and clothing the family, as well as paying the children's school fees.
According to the plaintiff, instead of appreciating her efforts in bearing both her duties and her husband's, Waheed frequently assaulted her whenever disagreements arose.
Details of the Alleged Assault
Dotun further stated that late last year, Waheed brutally beat her and subsequently threw her belongings out of their home. She added that since the incident, Waheed had continued to harass and threaten her.
She therefore appealed to the court to grant her custody of their children and order Waheed to contribute to their upkeep, particularly in feeding, education, and healthcare. Additionally, she requested a restraining order to prevent her husband from interfering with her private life.
Husband Agrees to Divorce
Waheed agreed that their union should be dissolved. During his testimony, he stated: “My husband and I began living together shortly after we met. We did not perform any marriage rites, and neither was my bride price paid.”
He continued: “Our relationship is blessed with five children. From the onset of our union, my husband showed signs of irresponsibility. He refused to perform his duties as the family’s breadwinner and shifted most of his responsibilities to me. Whenever our children requested anything from him, he always directed them back to me.”
“I worked tirelessly to ensure there was always food at home so my family would not go hungry. I clothed my husband and our children, and he felt comfortable with it. My husband also showed no concern for our children’s education. I was the one who enrolled them in school and paid their school fees.”
“Despite all my sacrifices to save him from disgrace, my husband never appreciated my efforts. Instead, he assaulted me whenever we had disagreements, and often beat me severely. The last time we fought, he mercilessly beat me simply because I challenged him to take responsibility for his family. After assaulting me, he threw my belongings out of the house. Since sending me out, he has continued to harass and threaten me.”
“I therefore plead with the court to dissolve our relationship. I also ask the court to grant me custody of our children because he lacks the ability to care for them. Furthermore, I request an order restraining him from threatening me or interfering with my privacy.”
Court Adjourns Case
After listening to the plaintiff’s testimony, the court president, Mrs. S.M. Akintayo, adjourned the case for the defense.
