RHODES-VIVOUR JCA (Delivering the Lead Judgment): The respondent commenced divorce proceedings against her husband, the appellant, before the Lagos High Court at Ikeja. Phillips J. presided. She sought the following:
A declaration that the marriage in fact celebrated between her and the appellant at the marriage registry, Lagos on 9 April 1994 is null and void on the ground that the appellant was, at the time of the aforesaid marriage, lawfully married to another person; Orders granting the respondent such financial provision and such property adjustment orders as may be just and in particular:
(a) A declaration that the entire property comprised in Plot L, Block 26, Amuwo Odofin Layout, consisting of (a) one six bedroom suite detached house, (b) two twin duplex houses (of three bedroom suites each) and (c) a three bedroom flat boys’ quarters, together with all the furniture and fixtures therein are owned by the respondent absolutely. Or such other declaration as the ownership thereof…