By Ade Oyeyemi
A Grade A Customary Court sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, has dissolved the relationship between a man, Sikiru, and his lover, Adijat, following allegations of frequent quarrels, violence and neglect of their child.
The court proceedings followed a suit filed by Sikiru, who accused Adijat of repeatedly fighting him, disrupting his activities and causing disturbances whenever she visited his home or workplace.
Sikiru told the court that he met Adijat on the street and later had sexual relations with her, after which she became pregnant.
According to him, the relationship subsequently became troubled, with Adijat allegedly engaging in frequent altercations with him and disturbing other residents of his compound.
He further alleged that she sometimes visited his workplace, where their arguments reportedly affected his business and drove away customers.
Sikiru said he approached the court because Adijat’s alleged behaviour had become increasingly violent and he feared that she might eventually harm him.
He therefore asked the court to terminate the relationship and restrain Adijat from harassing, threatening or interfering with him.
However, while Adijat agreed to the dissolution of the relationship, she accused Sikiru of failing to take responsibility for their child.
She told the court that the plaintiff had allegedly neglected the child’s welfare, leaving her to shoulder most of the responsibilities associated with the child’s upkeep.
Adijat further alleged that Sikiru failed to provide financial assistance when their child became ill and was admitted to hospital.
The woman told the court that she subsequently sought the intervention of Amotekun, the South-West security outfit, leading to Sikiru’s arrest over the matter.
Adijat also appealed to the court to grant her custody of their child and compel Sikiru to contribute towards the child’s maintenance.
After hearing the parties, the court brought the relationship to an end, effectively separating the couple.
The proceedings, however, left the dispute over the welfare and upkeep of their child as a major issue between the former lovers.
