A customary court in Kaduna has officially dissolved the six-year marriage between 37-year-old businesswoman, Hannah, and her husband, Caleb Williams, citing domestic violence and threats to life.
Presiding Judge, Justice Dauda John, delivered the ruling on Thursday, April 10, declaring that the marriage had broken down irretrievably and could no longer continue.
“No one should be forced to remain in a toxic marriage. The wife deserves peace and emotional relief,” Justice John stated.
He concluded that the union had become irreparable, especially with issues involving physical abuse and threats to life. The court granted full custody of the couple’s 5-year-old son to Hannah and ordered her to refund the N50,000 dowry paid by Caleb.
Earlier in the proceedings, Hannah had pleaded with the court to dissolve the marriage, citing repeated physical assault and emotional abuse, especially following the loss of their second child three years ago.
“My lord, I can no longer bear the emotional and physical abuse. Whenever I try to speak to him about his behavior, he lashes out and tells me if I’m tired of the marriage, I should leave,” she said.
She claimed her husband had beaten her on several occasions, only stopping when neighbors intervened. “I fear for my life. Next time, I may not survive,” she added.
“I am living in fear, not in a marriage. My mental health and that of my child matter. Please, end this marriage,” she pleaded with the court.
In response, Caleb denied the allegations but acknowledged that his wife had refused all attempts at reconciliation. He described her as “stubborn” and confirmed that he was no longer opposed to the dissolution.
The court officially ended the marriage, effective April 10, citing the safety and well-being of both parties—especially the petitioner—as paramount.