“I Cook Her Food, Fetch Her Water, But She Still Fights Me, Pulls My Scrotum” — Husband Tells Oyo Court

A divorce case filled with disturbing allegations was heard in an Oyo State customary court, as a man, Akinwale, sought the dissolution of his marriage to his wife, Olabisi, citing a lack of love, domestic abuse, and failure to contribute to their home. The matter has been adjourned for judgment.

Akinwale told the court he could no longer endure what he described as his wife’s rebellious and violent behavior. He claimed Olabisi shirked all her responsibilities, leaving him to handle household chores such as cooking and fetching water. The plaintiff alleged that each time he complained, Olabisi would become aggressive—tearing his clothes, biting him, destroying his phone, and even pulling his scrotum during physical altercations. He further accused her of making death threats, which, he said, compelled him to seek the court’s intervention.

He prayed the court to dissolve their marriage, grant him custody of their children, and issue a restraining order to prevent Olabisi from harassing or interfering in his life.

Olabisi, however, denied the allegations and opposed the divorce. She described her husband as neglectful and emotionally abusive. In her testimony, she said Akinwale had failed to care for her and their children, especially after she lost two of them following multiple cesarean sections. She claimed her doctor had advised her to avoid strenuous work, but her husband disregarded this and expected her to perform heavy domestic duties. Olabisi also accused him of withholding sex for nearly three years.

After hearing from both parties, the presiding judge, Mrs. S.M. Akintayo, adjourned the matter for judgment.