An 81-year-old man, identified as Ademola, has asked a customary court in Ibadan, Oyo State, to dissolve his 54-year relationship with his wife, Adesewa, over allegations of infidelity, violence and irresponsibility.

Ademola made the request before Grade A Customary Court 2, Mapo, saying the relationship had become unbearable because of frequent disagreements and what he described as his wife’s violent behaviour.

According to a report by TheCable on Saturday, the plaintiff told the court that they began living together in 1972 without a formal marriage ceremony.

He said he began regretting the relationship about 16 years ago after he allegedly caught his wife committing adultery.

“My wife suddenly became unfaithful and unreliable in our marriage,” he told the court.

Ademola also accused Adesewa of repeatedly leaving their home for days without explaining her whereabouts.

“There were times she left home for three days without leaving a clue about her whereabouts,” he said.

The octogenarian further alleged that disagreements between them frequently escalated into physical confrontations. He claimed his wife had torn several of his clothes during their quarrels.

“We argue and fight over almost everything. I go about almost stark naked these days because my wife has torn most of my clothes to shreds,” he said.

He also alleged that Adesewa once grabbed him by the neck and nearly strangled him after he caught her with another man.

“My lord, my wife is violent, and my life is no longer safe with her,” he told the court.

The plaintiff claimed their children and other people around them were aware of his allegations concerning his wife’s conduct.

He said he had reported her to the police over the alleged attack, adding that their repeated domestic disputes had made them regular visitors to police stations.

“My wife and I have become a common face at the police station due to her shameful behaviour,” he said.

Ademola told the court that he was no longer willing to continue the relationship and wanted to separate from his wife.

“My wife has made my life miserable. I am tired of our relationship and have decided to disengage from it,” he said.

In addition to seeking the dissolution of the union, he asked the court to restrain Adesewa from threatening him or interfering with his privacy.

The court president, O.E. Owoseni, adjourned the case to allow the defence to respond to the allegations.

The allegations presented in court have yet to be established through a reported response from Adesewa.