Lagos, Nigeria – A family dispute in Lagos has sparked debate about the role of police in personal conflicts after Charles Chiawa was detained at Ejigbo Police Station on the orders of his wife, Uche Chiawa, for allegedly marrying a second wife.
Sources say Charles and Uche have been married for 20 years, but trouble began eight years ago when Charles reportedly had a child with another woman. He later decided to take the woman as his second wife, a move Uche strongly opposed.
Legal Conflict: Tradition vs. Modern Law
Charles insists that his decision is justified under traditional customs, which allow polygamy. However, Uche argues that their union was not only a traditional marriage but was also legally registered in court, making polygamy unlawful in their case.
“I also did court, not only traditional marriage. I used police to arrest him because he always beats me,” Uche told reporters on Friday. However, when asked, the second wife denied any claims of domestic abuse, stating that Uche had never raised such allegations at the police station.
The situation has raised legal and ethical concerns, as experts argue that family disputes should be handled in civil courts rather than through police intervention.
Allegations of Police Misconduct
A source close to the matter alleged that the arrest was facilitated by CSP Patience Osuagwu, the Divisional Police Officer DPO of Ejigbo Police Station, who reportedly has a personal connection with Uche.
“Charles was detained because his first wife insisted he must suffer. The second wife tried to bail him, but the DPO refused to release him,” the source claimed.
Legal analysts argue that the police’s role in family disputes should be limited to cases involving clear criminal offenses, not personal disagreements. “This is a matter for a family court, not a police cell,” a legal expert noted.
Public Debate on Marriage Rights and Law Enforcement
The case highlights the ongoing debate about the clash between traditional marriage practices and modern legal rights. Some believe Charles has the right to take a second wife under traditional law, while others argue that a court-registered marriage legally prevents polygamy.
Meanwhile, critics have condemned the police for allegedly misusing their authority in a domestic matter. “This shows how personal influence can override the law,” a civil rights activist stated.
When contacted for comment, CSP Osuagwu dismissed the allegations, stating, “If that is the story they told you, you can believe it. I will not explain what happened to you on the phone unless you come to our station.”
Unresolved Tensions
As of now, Charles remains in police custody, with his second wife struggling to secure his release. The case continues to generate discussions on the enforcement of marriage laws, the role of law enforcement in domestic matters, and the balance between cultural traditions and legal rights.
Observers say the outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar marital disputes in Nigeria, where traditional and legal frameworks often conflict.
