In a case that highlights the impact of financial struggles on families, an Area Court in Centre-Igboro, Ilorin, on Wednesday, September 25, dissolved the marriage between Toyin Ajibola and Bashirat Mohammed. The court recognized that even though there was love between the couple, financial hardship had made it difficult for the relationship to continue.
Judge Hammad Ajumonbi acknowledged Mr. Ajibola’s affection for his wife but ruled that Ms. Mohammed, who had requested a divorce, should not be left to suffer due to her husband’s financial issues. The court decided that ending the marriage was the best way forward for both of them.
Ms. Mohammed explained that the ongoing financial difficulties and her husband’s lack of responsibility had left her feeling overwhelmed, and she could no longer stay in the marriage. She said she wanted peace of mind.
While Mr. Ajibola expressed regret over his inability to provide for his family, admitting his financial challenges, the court sided with Ms. Mohammed. The judge granted her custody of their three children, but made it clear that Mr. Ajibola would still need to contribute to their feeding as much as he could. He was also given full access to his children, with Ms. Mohammed expected to cooperate in making the children available whenever needed.
The court also required Ms. Mohammed to observe a three-month waiting period, known as iddah, before she could remarry, in line with Islamic law.
This case shows the difficult choices families face when financial problems make it hard for a marriage to survive, and how the court tries to balance emotional, financial, and legal issues fairly for both sides.
