The Tudun Wada Upper Shari’a Court in Kaduna issued a directive on Tuesday for Abdulmalik Ojoka, a husband embroiled in a divorce proceeding, to return to his marital residence and provide for his wife and two children.

Judge Iliyasu Umar issued the order following a plea from Mr. Ojoka’s wife, Maimuna Sulaiman, seeking dissolution of their marriage due to her husband’s alleged neglect, including failure to cover rent, school fees, and other family expenses.

Additionally, Mr. Umar advised the petitioner to demonstrate patience and accept her husband upon his return, offering counsel on the divorce proceedings.

The judge further ordered Maimuna to report back to the court on June 3 of any attitudinal changes by her spouse upon his return home.

Earlier, the complainant told the court that she had been married to her husband for 29 years, but he would pack his bags and leave anytime they had financial challenges.

“He left me and my children during Ramadan when our house rent was due; I had to go borrow money and pay to avoid eviction. I paid the school fees for my four children, even though two of them are now married; I want the court to dissolve the marriage since he has packed out,” the wife said.

Giving evidence before the court, Mr Ojoka denied the allegations and informed the court that he had been a responsible father, paying his children’s school fees until he lost his job.

He said when he lost his job, his wife refused to understand his financial situation and insisted that the children continue attending a private school when he suggested they transfer to a public school.

The respondent also denied the allegation of not paying the house rent.

According to him, his wife moved out of the house the family was living in, claiming it was uncomfortable.

“She moved into another house and paid the rent. Anytime I am home, it’s a quarrel, no peace,” Mr Ojoka told the court.