In a dramatic turn of events, Omotayo Kumunyi, a caterer from Ibadan, has filed for divorce after accusing her husband, Olatunde, of poisoning her food and subjecting her to frequent physical abuse. The Grade A Customary Court in Ibadan dissolved the 21-year marriage after hearing shocking testimonies of abuse.

Omotayo explained that her husband, Olatunde, who is a carpenter, failed to provide for her or their four children. She shared that five years ago, their third child revealed that she had seen Olatunde pouring a suspicious black substance into her food. Omotayo was stunned by this revelation and confronted her husband, but he denied it. When she asked him to eat the same food, he refused.

Beyond the poisoning allegations, Omotayo described how Olatunde would regularly beat her and their first child. The abuse eventually became unbearable, and she left their home, taking three of the children with her while leaving the second child behind with Olatunde.

In court, Olatunde did not respond to most of the accusations but acknowledged paying the dowry. He did, however, offer to contribute N5,000 monthly for the children’s care, provided the court did not grant him custody.

The court ruled in favor of Omotayo, granting her custody of the last three children and ordering Olatunde to pay N20,000 monthly for their feeding, education, and general upkeep. The court also stated that the first child, now 18, could choose which parent to live with, as they were legally considered an adult. In addition, the court issued a restraining order against Olatunde, preventing him from harassing or interfering with Omotayo’s life going forward.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting one’s safety in a marriage and ensuring that children are cared for in a stable environment. The court’s decision emphasizes the need to prioritize the well-being of the children during divorce proceedings.