Nigerian football star, Kayode Olanrewaju, has slammed a ₦1 billion lawsuit on controversial UK-based Pastor, Tobi Adegboyega for emotional trauma, financial loss and loss of goodwill occasioned by his alleged adulterous affair with his wife Dora Ezinne Kayode, and asking the court for an official divorce.
The cross-petition identified as Suit Number PET/304/2024, which contains various accusations related to adultery, financial impropriety, and a dramatic breakdown in family relations, was submitted to the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja.
Olanrewaju, in his counter-petition, asserted that since their union in 2013, Ezinne has engaged in extramarital affairs on multiple occasions, including an alleged ongoing relationship with Pastor Adegboyega.
He contended that his spouse’s association with Adegboyega was not clandestine, as they were frequently spotted together at social gatherings and engaging in public displays of affection.
The athlete further claimed that Ezinne has had similar liaisons with other individuals, rendering it impossible for him to sustain a marital relationship with her.
Olanrewaju additionally alleged that Ezinne diverted substantial sums and rental revenues from properties he had acquired, indicating that she is utilizing these resources to support her lavish lifestyle and her purported involvement with Pastor Adegboyega.
As per the legal complaint, the scheme involved collaboration with Ezinne’s alleged former partner, Ugochukwu Igboanugo, who assisted her in unlawfully manipulating property documents.
The footballer further accused Ezinne of alcohol abuse and a nocturnal social life, which contributed to the breakdown of their marriage.
Olanrewaju accused his estranged spouse of undermining their shared business projects. He elaborated on establishing DE-J-S Concept Ltd. with the intention of it being a platform for their investments, but alleged that Ezinne exploited this setup to embezzle funds and take advantage of the company’s assets, facilitated by her purported connections with Ugochukwu Igboanugo.
The footballer highlighted the emotional and financial burdens, distress, and damages incurred as a result of the alleged infidelity, financial malfeasance, and misconduct, which led to the sudden termination of his international football contract, prompting him to seek N1 billion in compensation.
While pursuing a formal dissolution of the marriage, Olanrewaju expressed astonishment upon receiving a financial reimbursement from his father-in-law in May 2024, signifying the return of the Bride Price paid during their nuptials.
He recounted how Dora Ezinne subsequently announced on social media that she was now traditionally released, following the repayment of the bride price.
Olanrewaju implored the court to end his marital union with Ezinne and award him custody of their offspring, citing concerns about his estranged wife’s suitability as a parental figure.
The case has been scheduled for a hearing on the 24th of September 2024.
