A Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, has dissolved the 11-year marriage between Moyosore and Olukayode following allegations of deceit, drug abuse, domestic violence, neglect and threats.
Moyosore had approached the court seeking an end to the marriage, alleging that her husband deceived her about his educational background before their wedding and later subjected her to years of hardship.
She told the court that Olukayode initially claimed to have obtained a National Diploma but disclosed shortly before their wedding that he had been expelled from school over alleged involvement in cult activities.
According to her, she nevertheless proceeded with the marriage, only to discover about a month later that her husband was allegedly abusing drugs.
Moyosore further alleged that Olukayode eventually resigned from his job without consulting her and became financially dependent on her, making life increasingly difficult for the family.
She said the situation deteriorated further when he stopped sleeping at home before eventually moving out.
The petitioner also accused him of physically assaulting her during one of his visits, alleging that he beat her until she lost consciousness.
She said the incident was reported to the police, leading to his arrest and detention for two days.
Moyosore further alleged that her estranged husband subsequently threatened her, verbally abused her and damaged some of her personal belongings, including their wedding photographs and video recording.
She also raised concerns about an allegation involving their youngest child following a visit to the defendant, asking the court to protect the children and grant her custody.
The woman said she and Olukayode had been living apart since 2023 and that she could no longer endure what she described as persistent mistreatment.
She therefore asked the court to dissolve the marriage, grant her custody of their children and order the defendant to contribute to their feeding, education and healthcare.
She also sought an order restraining him from threatening, harassing or interfering with her privacy.
Olukayode was absent from court despite being served with the relevant court summons and did not present a defence to the allegations.
In her judgment, the court president, Mrs O.E. Owoseni, said the parties had contracted a valid customary marriage and noted that the petitioner’s evidence remained unchallenged.
The judge held that the allegations of irresponsibility, deceit and drug addiction presented sufficient grounds for ending the marriage.
Owoseni consequently dissolved the marriage and granted Moyosore custody of their children.
The court also ordered Olukayode to contribute to the children’s upkeep and restrained him from threatening or interfering with the petitioner’s private life.