Court dissolves 22-year marriage over drug abuse, violence

From Victor Akinkuolie, Ado Ekiti
A dramatic tale unfolded at an Ekiti State Customary Court sitting in Ise-Ekiti, as a 22-year-old marriage between Ogundele Olarewaju and his wife, Bukola Olarewaju, came to a bitter end amidst allegations of drug abuse and domestic violence.
The petitioner, Bukola, a 42-year-old auxiliary nurse, painted a troubling picture of her marriage. She alleged that Ogundele was a chronic smoker who also indulged in cannabis and other dangerous substances.
According to her, the husband’s erratic behaviour included frequent physical assaults, neglect of their two children, and complete abandonment of his role as the family’s provider.
Her testimony revealed that Ogundele had packed out of their home and was now living with another woman in a nearby community. Seeking to cut ties with her estranged husband, Bukola urged the court to dissolve the marriage and grant her custody of their two children, stating that the move would enable her to focus on her career and care for the children.
Ogundele, however, denied the allegations in their entirety. He countered by accusing Bukola of disrespecting him and his family, claiming she failed to acknowledge him as the head of the household. Despite his denials, Ogundele agreed with Bukola’s call to end the marriage, describing it as a mere “association.” He expressed readiness to remarry and move forward with his life.
After listening to the emotionally charged submissions from both sides, the court, presided over by Dr Olayinka Akomolede and panel members Mr Rasheed Jimoh and Mr Mathew Ajayi, ruled in favour of dissolving the marriage.
The court granted Bukola custody of the two children, Tomiwa, 13, and Babajide, 17, while ordering Ogundele to pay ₦20,000 monthly through the court for their upkeep. Both parents were directed to share responsibilities for the children’s welfare and were granted equal visitation rights.
Furthermore, the court instructed Bukola to vacate Ogundele’s residence within two weeks and declared that both parties were free to remarry. It also provided a 21-day window for any party dissatisfied with the judgment to file an appeal.
The dramatic case highlights the fragility of marital relationships and the painful consequences of unresolved conflicts, leaving onlookers stunned by the allegations and their tragic impact on a once-united family.