Court Dissolves Six-Year Marriage over Domestic Abuse in Kaduna

Earlier in the proceedings, Hannah narrated a harrowing experience of repeated domestic abuse since the loss of their second child three years ago. She described the marriage as deeply toxic, alleging that her husband often assaulted her violently, sometimes requiring the intervention of neighbours.

Kaduna, Nigeria – Kaduna Customary Court has officially dissolved the six-year-old marriage between a 37-year-old businesswoman, Hannah, and her husband, Caleb Williams, following allegations of persistent physical abuse and threats to life.

Presiding over the matter, Judge Dauda John ruled in favour of the petitioner, asserting that the marriage had broken down irretrievably and could no longer be sustained. According to him, no individual should be compelled to remain in a violent and emotionally draining relationship.

“The court finds no justification for the continuation of this union, especially when the petitioner’s life is under threat. The marriage is therefore dissolved with immediate effect, as of April 10,” Judge John declared.

In addition to the dissolution, the court granted custody of the couple’s five-year-old son to the mother. The petitioner was also directed to return the sum of N50,000, which was the bride price paid by the respondent.

Earlier in the proceedings, Hannah narrated a harrowing experience of repeated domestic abuse since the loss of their second child three years ago. She described the marriage as deeply toxic, alleging that her husband often assaulted her violently, sometimes requiring the intervention of neighbours.

“My lord, I’ve endured both emotional and physical abuse. He beats me to a stupor and tells me I will either leave his house alive or in a coffin. I’m afraid one day, I may not survive his beatings,” she said during the hearing.

Hannah told the court that she had tried on several occasions to discuss the situation with her husband, but he responded with threats and further aggression.

“I can no longer continue in a home where fear has replaced love. This is no longer a marriage; it’s a prison,” she added, pleading with the court to free her for the sake of her mental well-being and that of her child.

In his defence, Caleb Williams denied the accusations, claiming instead that his wife was stubborn and unyielding. He, however, agreed to the dissolution, stating that Hannah had refused reconciliation efforts and had already made up her mind to walk away.

Despite his denials, the court concluded that the allegations of battery and threat to life were credible and grave enough to terminate the union.

The judgment brings to an end what has been a deeply troubled marriage, marked by trauma and emotional distress for the petitioner.