An Ilorin Area Court on Wednesday separated a family of five over a wife’s claim of maltreatment.

Rukayat Imam, a mother of three, approached the court presided over by Judge Ibrahim Umar for dissolution of her four-year-old marriage to Isiaka Imam for alleged maltreatment and uncaring attitude.

The plaintiff, a food seller and resident of Isale Oja in Ilorin, told the court that she was tired of the union and wished to start a new life.

The 23-year-old woman also sought the custody of the three children in addition to N30,000 monthly maintenance fees from the defendant.

When the wife was asked if the husband would be able to pay the fee, the plaintiff said the defendant could afford it because he works as a driver.

But respondent, Imam denied the allegations, saying he cared for his children. He, however, agreed to the dissolution of the marriage.

“It is a lie that I maltreat her. I have cared for her and my children, but if she is ready to divorce me, I agree with her. She should go,” Imam told the court.

He also objected to the plaintiff’s request for the custody of the children and the maintenance fee of N30,000.

Imam, who said he was not ready to release his children, added that he could not afford the N30, 000 fee requested.

Umar, who dissolved the marriage as sought by both parties, ordered the plaintiff to perform three months “Iddah” (Islamic period of waiting before remarrying).

He said any aggrieved party should appeal the judgment at the Sharia Court of Appeal within 30 days.

The judge adjourned the case to August 22 for continuation of hearing on the children’s custody and maintenance fee. (NAN)