ILORIN, Nigeria (FN) — Tensions flared in a Kwara State courtroom Thursday when a woman collapsed after her husband insisted on ending their marriage, despite her public plea to remain together.
Mulikat Yusuf, a mother of six, reportedly slumped and lost consciousness moments after her husband, Ishaq Abdulganiyu, told the court he was no longer interested in the union. The incident occurred during proceedings at an Area Court in Ilorin presided over by Judge Toyin Aluko.
Before the episode, Yusuf had pleaded with the court to help salvage the marriage, telling the judge she had no other home or means to support herself and their children. “I have nowhere to go,” she reportedly said, fighting back tears.
Despite her emotional appeal, Abdulganiyu remained resolute, telling the court he had made up his mind to pursue a divorce. As he restated his intention, Yusuf broke down in tears, walked out of the courtroom, and collapsed just outside.
Court officials and concerned bystanders rushed to her aid, reviving her with water and attempting to calm her as she regained consciousness.
Judge Aluko, reacting to the incident, urged both parties to consider reconciliation. He advised Yusuf to “explore every possible means” to reach an amicable resolution with her husband, emphasizing the importance of family unity.
The case was adjourned until December 10 for either a report on settlement efforts or continuation of the hearing.
The case has sparked online debate in Nigeria, where issues of divorce, women’s rights, and economic vulnerability within marriages remain deeply sensitive and widely discussed.
