Divorced Kaduna Woman Refuses to Leave Marital Home, Cites Care for Daughters

Latinate Sanusi, a mother of six daughters, has refused to leave her former marital residence, stating her commitment to properly caring for her children as the primary reason.

Her divorce from Abdulrazak Yunusa was officially confirmed by a Sharia Court in Kaduna, following his declaration of divorce on three separate occasions — a requirement for dissolution under Islamic law.

Despite the court’s confirmation of the divorce, Sanusi appealed to remain in the home, arguing that her ex-husband had neglected their daughters’ welfare and that her continued presence was essential to their well-being.

“All my children are girls, and I want to stay and care for them. After all, he barely meets their needs,” she told the court.

Yunusa, however, contested her claims, insisting he had fulfilled his responsibilities and accused Sanusi of being disobedient — the reason he gave for ending the marriage.

Presiding over the case, Judge Malam Kabir Muhammad affirmed the divorce based on the three pronouncements made by Yunusa. He clarified that the couple is no longer legally married and emphasized that issues regarding custody should be filed as a separate case.

“What is before me is a confirmation of divorce. The matter of child custody can be brought to the court as a fresh suit,” the judge ruled.