A woman identified as Salamotu has asked the Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, to dissolve her marriage to her husband, Salami, citing abuse, mistrust, and lack of care.
In her testimony before the court, Salamotu stated that her marriage had been marked by unhappiness and emotional distress. She alleged that her husband frequently accused her of infidelity, particularly claiming that she was involved with her customers because she returned home late from work.
She told the court that Salami often embarrassed her by confronting her customers and creating scenes that negatively affected her business. According to her, he regularly assaulted her and, on one occasion, forced her out of their home late at night after beating her, leaving her to sleep outside.
Salamotu further claimed that her husband brought back his former wife into their home, which created tension and rivalry. She added that he closely monitored her movements and denied her peace of mind throughout the marriage.
She explained that no traditional marriage rites were performed and that her bride price was never paid. Concluding that there was no love left between them, she urged the court to end the marriage.
In addition to seeking dissolution, Salamotu requested custody of their children and asked the court to order her husband to take responsibility for their welfare, including feeding, education, and healthcare. She also sought a restraining order to prevent him from threatening or interfering with her privacy.
Salami did not oppose the request for divorce, stating that he was also no longer interested in continuing the marriage. He accused his wife of being unfaithful and mentioned that she had once involved the police during a dispute between them. He added that he had remarried and that his new wife had children for him.
After hearing both parties, the court president, Mrs. S. M. Akintayo, adjourned the case for judgment.
