Top Headline

Court declares Idoma Adultery Deity ‘Alekwu’ repugnant, unconstitutional

A Customary Court sitting in Pyakasa, FCT, has declared the Idoma tradition of denying women the right to divorce repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience.

Another practice that was struck down sought to compel husbands to “return” their wives to the wife’s ancestral home in Igumale before a divorce could become final.

According to this tradition, non-compliance with the demands would incur the wrath of Alekwu, a vicious deity that punishes adultery by killing the children and husbands of women who commit adultery.

In the lead judgment delivered by Hon. Ehusani Simpa Abel, the Court held that “A custom which does not permit the economic, social and political growth of a people is contrary to the rule of Natural Justice, Equity and good conscience… every woman in Nigeria has the right to enter into marriage and a corresponding right to exit any marriage.”

Meanwhile, the Idoma ethnic group has frowned at the judgment by a Customary Court sitting in Pyakasa, FCT, which declared the Idoma tradition of denying women the right to divorce repugnant to natural justice, equity and good conscience.

ALSO READ: Idoma people react as Abuja court moves against Alekwu

Ameh Jazzia-Becky

Recent Posts

BREAKING: Tinubu govt bows to pressure, drops treason charges against EndBadGovernance protesters

The Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed the case against individuals charged in connection with…

1 hour ago

Benue: ‘I’m not behind Ukpute-Bonta crisis’ – Rep David Ogewu

The member representing Oju/Obi Federal Constituency and Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Army,…

1 hour ago

Tension as new terrorist group ‘LAKURAWAS’ emerges in Nigeria

The Sokoto State Government has raised alarms about the emergence of a new terrorist group…

2 hours ago

Ujah: Ministry of Education breaks silence on suspension of FUHSO VC, issues fresh order

The Federal Ministry of Education has formally addressed the suspension of Prof. Innocent A.O. Ujah…

3 hours ago

‘Herdsmen after our women’ – Idoma community raises alarm

Residents of Ukwonyo community in the Ufia axis of Ado Local Government Area, Benue State,…

3 hours ago

FUHSO: Why we suspended Prof Ujah as Otukpo varsity Vice Chancellor – Governing Council

The Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, has explained why it…

3 hours ago