In a bustling courtroom, before Judge Fatshimetrie, a divorcing couple revealed harrowing details about the reasons for their separation. Sadia, wanting to end her marriage, said she did not understand why her husband had made the decision to break up. She says: “After learning that Lukman really wanted a child, I became pregnant and gave birth to our child. We lived harmoniously and I don’t know why he doesn’t want me anymore.” Unable to understand her partner’s motivations, Sadia asks for custody of their young child, believing that he is too young to stay with his father.
For his part, Lukman, an Arabic teacher, cited domestic violence and lack of support from his wife as reasons for filing for divorce. “I want to end this relationship because Elesinmeta does not take care of me and we are often in conflict. Furthermore, I have not completed the essential rites of marriage with Elesinmeta. I also want to obtain custody of our only child.”
After hearing arguments from both parties, Justice Fatshimetrie concluded that the marriage was invalid due to non-payment of dowry and non-performance of matrimonial rites. She emphasized that Lukman and Elesinmeta only agreed on procreation, not marriage. Therefore, custody of the child was awarded to the defendant, finding that it would be detrimental to allow the plaintiff to care for the child during his early years.
This case highlights the complexity of marital relationships and highlights the emotional and legal consequences of separation. Family disputes can be heartbreaking, but it is essential to find solutions that are fair to all parties involved.