‘My once loving wife became hostile, distant after I changed my faith’

By Toluwani Olamitoke

Grade A Customary Court, Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State has adjourned further hearing of a divorce case brought before it by a man, Waheed against his wife, Iyabo on the grounds of religious difference.

Waheed, in his suit, pleaded with the court to end his marriage to Iyabo because they were no longer like minds.

The plaintiff stated that he could no longer put up with the level of religious intolerance being exhibited by his wife.

Iyabo was absent in court although she was served court summonses.

Waheed giving his evidence said, “My wife and I were both Christians when we met. We courted and went into wedlock after we were convinced we were met for each other.

“Our marriage was a blissful one. We cherished our relationship and enjoyed each other’s company.

“Things got better in our union when we started having our children. They made our joy full.

“The love and intimacy started to dwindle along the line after I made my decision of changing my faiths known to her.

“Peace has since deserted our home since I have changed from been a Christian to a Muslim.

“I started seeing a new side of my wife. She suddenly became unapproachable and difficult to relate with.

She swore she would never join me in my new faith and stood on her word.

“Iyabo now makes life difficult for me and I derive no pleasure rushing home after working hours.

“She picks fault at all that I do and always spoils for a fight.

“Our children are no longer happy because of the strain in my relationship with my wife.

“The more I make my wife see reason, the more she distant herself from me.

“I beseech this honourable court to end our marriage. I can no longer put up with my wife’s difficult attitude.

“I promise to be there for our children always.