A Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, has adjourned a divorce petition filed by a man, Sylvester, against his wife, Kudirat, over allegations of physical assault, constant quarrels and threats to his life.
The petitioner told the court that his wife had made their relationship unbearable through repeated acts of aggression and hostility, leaving him with no option but to seek the dissolution of the union.
Sylvester alleged that Kudirat frequently picked quarrels with him and often resorted to physical violence whenever disagreements arose between them.
He further claimed that she harboured grudges for long periods, citing an occasion when she allegedly refused to speak to him or maintain any form of communication with him for three months.
According to him, the situation worsened when Kudirat stopped preparing meals for him and paid little attention to his welfare despite continuing to cater for herself.
The plaintiff also accused his wife of threatening to kill him, saying he now fears for his safety and can no longer remain in the marriage.
Kudirat was absent from court despite reportedly being served with a hearing notice.
While giving evidence, Sylvester stated that he and Kudirat never formally celebrated their marriage and that no bride price was paid.
He told the court that his wife began exhibiting hostile behaviour from the early stages of their relationship and never appreciated his efforts to make the marriage work.
“She is always looking for reasons to quarrel and becomes violent whenever we disagree.
On several occasions, she assaulted me and humiliated me in the presence of our children and neighbours,” he said.
The petitioner added that his wife’s conduct had left him emotionally distressed and fearful of what might happen if the marriage continued.
“I can no longer endure her treatment. I am asking this court to dissolve the union before her threats become reality,” he pleaded.
Following his testimony, the President of the court, Mrs O. E. Owoseni, adjourned the matter to a later date for the defendant’s defence.
The court also ordered that a fresh hearing notice be issued and served on Kudirat ahead of the next sitting.