A man identified as Obinna has asked a Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, to dissolve his marriage after accusing his wife, Chidinma, of infidelity, irresponsible behaviour and allegedly threatening his life.
Obinna told the court that his decision to end the marriage followed a shocking revelation by a fellow landlord in their neighbourhood, who allegedly confessed to having an affair with Chidinma.
According to the husband, the man claimed Chidinma had told him that Obinna was dead before entering into the alleged relationship with him.
Obinna said the revelation left him devastated, particularly because he claimed to have invested heavily in his wife’s welfare and financial independence.
He told the court that he paid ₦490,000 as her bride price and later constructed a shop in front of their home for her, stocking it with goods to enable her to earn an income.
The petitioner alleged that despite his efforts to provide for his wife, she betrayed his trust and subsequently became involved in behaviour he considered harmful to their family.
“My lord, my wife has betrayed the trust I had in her,” Obinna told the court.
He further alleged that Chidinma took to excessive drinking and sometimes drank to stupor, adding that he believed her conduct was negatively influencing their children.
The husband also accused his wife of turning their children against him, claiming she had poisoned their minds through constant instigation.
Obinna said the alleged affair had also made him fearful for his safety, forcing him to stop eating meals prepared at home because he believed his life could be at risk.
He told the court that his wife temporarily left the matrimonial home after he confronted her over the allegation but later returned.
Despite the challenges, Obinna said he was no longer interested in continuing the marriage and urged the court to allow both parties to go their separate ways.
He also asked the court to order Chidinma to vacate his house, while offering to pay one year’s rent for her new accommodation.
Chidinma was not present in court despite reportedly being served with the court processes.
The court president, Mrs S.M. Akintayo, subsequently adjourned the matter and ordered that a fresh hearing notice be issued and served on the defendant.
The case will now continue with the defendant expected to have an opportunity to respond to the allegations against her.
