A heated courtroom clash unfolded as Magistrate Temitope Alphonso reprimanded a defiant father, Atilo, over his refusal to comply with court directives regarding his children’s custody and welfare.
In a dramatic ruling, the magistrate mandated Atilo to pay N35,000 monthly for the upkeep of his children, warning that any failure to comply would amount to contempt of court. The funds, according to the order, would be deposited with the court, where the children would collect it—a decision that has sparked controversy over parental rights and the role of the judiciary in financial obligations.
Further fueling the tension, Atilo had demanded custody of the children while proposing that their mother be granted access only with a 48-hour prior notice—an arrangement many see as an attempt to sideline the mother from active parenting.
With emotions running high and legal battles intensifying, the case has been adjourned to May 8 for further hearing. As the courtroom drama continues, the question remains: Is the ruling a fair attempt at enforcing responsibility, or does it set a precedent for judicial overreach in family disputes?
