Temim Aishat Omotayo had her LL.B at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State in 2010, afterwards, she proceeded to Law School in Kano State and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2012. Upon completion of her NYSC programme in 2012, She joined the Chambers of Issa Manzuma, the former chairman Nigerian Bar Association, in 2014. She shares with JUDICIARY CORRESPONDENT, KAYODE ADEOTI, her most dramatic experience in court. Excerpts:
A case was reported at the FIDA, (International Federation of Women Lawyers), in Ilorin, Kwara State sometimes ago. Being a body that fights against abuse of women, young ones, we took it up and I played a major role.
Aishat, the victim in the case had complained that she was forcefully married to her husband and that whenever the man wanted to have sex with her, he will beat her to a stupor, and tie her to the bed.
She showed us multiple injuries inflicted on her by the husband to confirm this.
When she discovered that the development could lead to her death, she sued for divorce at the Upper Area Court. When the husband plea was taken, he denied ever beating his wife.
On the hearing day, about 18 of Aishat’s relatives, including her father, the petitioner, stormed the court threatening that they will beat me up and other FIDA members, for taking up the matter. They were pointing to me that I was the one who instigated their daughter to file for divorce. I didn’t trade words with them over the allegation because they were not educated. When we were about to leave the court, about 17 of them were standing by the gate ready to unleash terror, I had to run to the judge who provided four court guards to accompany us to the FIDA house and the then NBA chairman appealed to them in Nupe language. They left but threatened I would lose a child in seven days. And I replied that by God’s grace the curse will not come to pass, and I thank God, my prayer was answered.
