A shopkeeper, Rashidat Ogunniyi, who accused her husband of loving her dog more than her, got her wish on Friday at the Igando Customary Court in lakes dissolved their marriage.
The President of the Court, Adeniyi Koledoye, held that the defendant’s repeated refusal to appear in court would not stop the proceedings.
“Throughout the duration of this case, the defendant has failed to honor court proceedings, therefore the court has no choice but to dissolve the marriage.
“The court hereby declares the marriage between Mr. Kazeem Ogunniyi and Ms. Rashidat Ogunniyi to be dissolved today. From now on you both cease to be husband and wife.
“Each of you must go your own way undisturbed; the court wishes them both the best in their future endeavours,” he said.
Mr. Koledoye handed over custody of the couple’s only child to Rashidat and ordered Mr. Ogunniyi to pay 10,000 naira per month for his food.
It held that Mr. Ogunniyi would also be responsible for the child’s education and general welfare.
Earlier, during the hearing of the case, Ms. Ogunniyi had requested the dissolution of her marriage of 12 years, claiming that her husband only cared about the welfare of their dog.
“Kazeem is an irresponsible husband and father, he lacks care and love for me and our son.
“He only cares about his dog’s health, happiness and safety. He always showers the dog with praise,” said Mrs. Ogunniyi.
The 40-year-old petitioner also said that Mr. Ogunniyi was domineering and violent.
“My husband turned me into a punching bag, he hits me at the slightest provocation. There was a day when he hit me in public and ripped my clothes.
“Once he picked up my clothes and wanted to burn them, but the timely intervention of our imam came to the scene and stopped him,” he said.
The mother of one said she “hadn’t been at peace since she got married.”
According to her, “Mr. Ogunniyi encourages his daughter to steal his money and give it to him so she can buy him a phone.”
Ms. Ogunniyi prayed to the court to dissolve the marriage, saying that she no longer loved Kazeem.
“I live every minute of my life in fear. Save me from the cruel hands of my husband and grant me custody of our son,” she prayed.
The Nigerian News Agency (NAN), reports that Mr. Ogunniyi, who was served with the summons, was absent throughout the proceedings.
(YAYA)