Kaduna Court Dissolves Marriage Over Domestic Abuse, Grants Full Custody to Mother

In a judgment that highlights the urgent need to address domestic violence in marriages, a Kaduna Customary Court has officially dissolved the six-year union between 37-year-old businesswoman Hannah Williams and her estranged husband, Caleb Williams, due to repeated abuse and life-threatening threats.

Delivering the verdict on April 10, 2025, Judge Dauda John stated that no individual should be forced to remain in a toxic or dangerous relationship. He emphasized that the court’s priority is to ensure safety, dignity, and peace for all individuals, especially when children are involved.

Hannah, the petitioner, revealed during the hearing that she had endured years of beatings and emotional trauma at the hands of her husband. According to her testimony, neighbors had to intervene on multiple occasions to prevent fatal outcomes. The abuse had reached a point where she constantly feared for her life and safety.

Though Caleb denied the allegations and blamed their marital issues on Hannah’s "unyielding nature," he did not object to the dissolution when it became clear that reconciliation was no longer possible.

As part of the judgment, the court granted Hannah full custody of their 5-year-old son, citing concerns for the child's safety and emotional stability. The court also ordered Caleb to be refunded the N50,000 dowry he paid at the start of their marriage.

“This court upholds the principle that marriage should be a sanctuary, not a battlefield. It’s our duty to protect the vulnerable and ensure justice for the oppressed,” Judge John said.

The ruling has been widely praised by women’s rights advocates, who say it sets an important legal precedent for addressing domestic abuse in customary courts. It is hoped that the case will embolden more victims to speak out and seek justice.

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