A marriage dispute over food, alleged infidelity and family responsibilities has landed a couple before an Oyo State customary court. A man identified as Jameed has asked the Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, to dissolve his marriage to his wife, Tawakalitu, over several allegations, including neglect, violence and destructive behaviour.
Jameed told the court that his wife often left their home without informing him. According to him, she sometimes stayed away for up to a week without revealing her whereabouts.
He also accused her of having extramarital affairs. He claimed she spoke with alleged lovers on the phone in his presence and showed little concern about how it affected him.
The plaintiff further alleged that his wife neglected household duties and spent money meant for their children’s school fees on unnecessary expenses.
In another claim that drew attention, Jameed accused Tawakalitu of poor cooking habits. He said he gave her N60,000 monthly for food, but she prepared only one meal daily, leaving him and their children hungry on some occasions.
He also told the court that he once returned home and found their children washing plates at a canteen. According to him, the children said their mother took them there to work and they received food afterward.
Jameed also made a serious allegation involving their 15-year-old daughter. He claimed the girl told him that her mother said she was old enough to start sleeping with men.
The man further accused his wife of physical violence. He alleged that she once hit him in the face with the heel of her shoe, leaving a permanent scar.
According to Jameed, he later sent Tawakalitu away and married another woman because he could no longer cope with the situation. However, he claimed his estranged wife continued to visit his home and office to confront him and damage his property.
“I am tired of her behaviour,” he told the court. He asked the court to end the marriage, grant him custody of their children and stop his wife from threatening him or interfering with his privacy.
Tawakalitu did not appear in court despite reportedly receiving the court summons.
After hearing Jameed’s testimony, the court president, Mrs S.M. Akintayo, adjourned the case for further proceedings.
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