A man identified as Kabiru has dragged his wife, Kadiat, before the Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, seeking the dissolution of their six-year-old marriage over allegations of misconduct, violence, and threats to his life.
Kabiru told the court that he already had two wives before marrying Kadiat, who became his third wife.
He explained that their union was peaceful and harmonious until he married another wife after her, reports Saturday Tribune.
Kabiru alleged that Kadiat began creating problems in the home and frequently engaged him in fights. He further claimed that she became violent and once attempted to stab him while he was asleep beside her in the middle of the night.
The plaintiff stated that he might have lost his life if not for his swift reaction in overpowering her and retrieving the knife from her.
Kabiru told the court that he feared Kadiat might one day stab him to death.
He therefore appealed to the court to dissolve their marriage and declare that they were no longer husband and wife.
He also sought an order restraining her from threatening and interfering in his private life.
Kadiat, however, was absent from court despite having been served with court summons.
Kabiru, while testifying before the court, stated:
“My wife and I contracted a traditional marriage in 2020, and I paid N50,000 as her bride price.
“Before marrying her, I already had two wives.
“Kadiat and I initially had a cordial and loving relationship.
“Our marriage was peaceful and fulfilling.
“I always looked forward to returning home after work because I knew she would be there waiting for me.
“She was caring, supportive, and pleasant to be with.
“We shared each other’s burdens and celebrated our successes together.
“However, everything changed after I married another wife.
“Kadiat became withdrawn and started behaving badly.
“She became unruly, disobeyed my instructions, and constantly picked fights with me.
“She turned our home upside down and made life unbearable for me.
“I lost my peace of mind and no longer looked forward to going home after work.
“I never imagined things would get worse.
“One night, while we were in bed and I was drifting off to sleep, she suddenly brought out a knife and attempted to stab me.
“I would have lost my life if I had not reacted swiftly by jumping out of bed, overpowering her, and seizing the knife from her before fleeing to safety.
“I no longer wish to continue the marriage because I fear for my life. If I remain in the relationship, she may eventually kill me.
“I therefore urge this honourable court to dissolve our marriage.
“I have already deposited N500,000 for our children’s school fees.
“I also seek an order restraining her from threatening or interfering with my private life.”
The President of the court, Mrs. S.M. Akintayo, adjourned the case until July 17 for cross-examination or possible foreclosure of the matter.
