A Pastor [/b]known as David Odeniyi has taken a decisive step by filing for the dissolution of his marriage [/b]with his wife, Bolanle, at the Mapo Grade ‘A’ Customary Court in Ibadan, citing grave allegations of domestic violence and public humiliation.
The pastor, residing in Basorun, Ibadan, recounted disturbing instances where his wife Bolanle subjected him to physical abuse and public shame, including an incident where she stripped him naked during a church service, leaving the congregation in shock and disbelief.
In addition to physical violence, the pastor accused Bolanle of abandonment, revealing that she embarked on a trip to Libya without his consent, leaving behind their child. Bolanle has reportedly been residing outside Nigeria for two years, exacerbating the strain on their marital relationship.
This isn’t the first time Pastor Odeniyi sought legal recourse to address their marital discord. A previous divorce suit filed at a Grade ‘C’ Customary Court in the Gate area of Ibadan was resolved through reconciliation. However, with Bolanle failing to amend her behavior, the pastor felt compelled to seek legal intervention once again.
Despite being present in court during her husband’s testimony, Bolanle failed to appear to defend herself when called upon, further complicating the situation.
Detailing the ordeal he endured, Pastor Odeniyi expressed his anguish, stating;
“She pulls and drags my trousers in order to disgrace me. Had I known that my wife would treat me like this, I would never have married her. Bolanle abandoned me with our only child and travelled to Libya. She’s been there for two years without my approval.
“In fact, she stripped me naked in front of my congregation and maliciously exposed the secret I kept with her. Worst still, Bolanle usually prevent visitors from seeing me, poisoned my food and kicked me in the stomach”.
Presiding over the case, the court’s President, Mrs. S.M. Akintayo, acknowledged the existence of a valid customary marriage between the couple. However, considering the gravity of the allegations and the apparent lack of willingness to reconcile, Mrs. Akintayo granted Odeniyi’s request for a divorce.
Furthermore, the court issued an order restraining Bolanle from threatening, harassing, or interfering in the private life of her estranged husband, providing Pastor Odeniyi with a semblance of protection as he seeks to move forward from the tumultuous marriage.
