Borno Stste
A Maiduguri-based Islamic cleric, Imam Kabdu, has expressed deep concern over the alarming surge in divorce cases among young couples, particularly in the rural communities of Borno State, urging families and intending spouses to prioritize pre-marital understanding and counseling.
Delivering his Friday Juma’a sermon at the 777 Housing Estate Mosque in Maiduguri, Imam Kabdu revealed a troubling trend, noting that marital breakups in the community have far outpaced new marriages.
“Within a month, we may witness at least one marriage ceremony, yet two or more divorce cases are handled in this mosque, apart from those we are not aware of in rural communities,” the cleric stated.
Imam Kabdu attributed the high rate of marital failure primarily to a lack of understanding regarding the duties and responsibilities that come with marriage.
He highlighted several key factors fueling the trend, including:
Dishonesty and lack of trust between partners
Financial and emotional neglect of family obligations
Unfaithfulness, jealousy, and effective communication breakdowns
Weak religious commitment
Drug abuse among young spouses
Expressing concern over the societal impact, Kabdu emphasized that couples are separating at an alarming rate despite the sacred religious and social significance attached to the institution of marriage.
To curb the trend, the cleric urged intending couples to conduct thorough background checks and gain a deep understanding of each other’s character, attitudes, family backgrounds, and religious beliefs prior to tying the knot. He noted that these considerations are essential for building a stable home capable of withstanding domestic challenges.
He also stressed the importance of seeking proper pre-marital guidance and counseling from religious leaders and experienced family members.
For already married couples, Imam Kabdu advocated for patience, mutual respect, sincerity, and open dialogue. He advised families to intervene constructively by offering counseling and promoting reconciliation rather than allowing minor disagreements to escalate into permanent separations.
