A Grade ‘A’ Customary Court in Mapo, Ibadan on Friday, dissolved an 18 year-old union between a petitioner, one Bushra Amzat and her estranged spouse Olaide Amzat.
The court granted dissolution of the union, following claims of domestic violence and false accusations averred by the petitioner.
Delivering judgment, the court President, Mrs S.M. Akintayo held that the union between the duo was merely a cohabitation and not a marriage in the first place, following none payment of bride price.
The court, however, granted an order, restraining Olaide from threatening or disturbing the private affairs of Bushra
She also awarded custody of the four children of the union, to the petitioner and directed the respondent to be jointly responsible for their education and general welfare.
Bushra, a trader had told the court that her husband had constantly accused her of infidelity, an allegation she claimed to be false.
She also stated that the respondent accused her of coming home late and consequently, turned her into a ‘punching bag’ ..
“In fact, our neighbours usually see him beating me.
“Worst still, my lord, Amzat has locked me out of the house before and has even married another wife,” she said
Meanwhile, the respondent was absent when he was called to cross examine the petitioner and to open his defence.
According to court’s record, several hearing notices were served on Amzat, but he did not show up.
