Ayodeji Obayan, a Nigerian man in his middle age, has taken legal action against his estranged wife, Lillian Obayan. The dispute arose when Lillian unilaterally changed their children’s surnames without obtaining Ayodeji’s consent.
The disagreement came to light during a hearing at the Grade ‘A’ Customary Court in Oke-Eda, Akure, Ondo State.
Ayodeji Obayan expressed his frustration and determination to establish his paternity rights over their four children. The couple’s 23-year marriage has been marked by consistent conflicts and abuse, exacerbated when Lillian left their home in 2019 to be with another man.
What upset Ayodeji further was Lillian’s subsequent decision to not only change her own name but also alter their children’s surnames to match her new partner’s name.
In his court statement, Ayodeji Obayan emphasized his commitment as a father and his distress over his estranged wife’s actions. He plans to seek legal recourse to protect his fatherly rights and maintain the children’s sense of identity.
Lillian defended her actions, portraying Ayodeji as an irresponsible husband who neglected his responsibilities towards their children. She stated that he hadn’t paid her dowry and hadn’t fulfilled his financial duties to their children.
Lillian stated, “My new love wants my children to bear his name instead of that of their irresponsible father. Our children are old enough to choose for themselves.”