A father in Kaduna State, Lawal Hamisu, has dragged his 27-year-old daughter, Fatima Lawal, to a Shari'a Court over her refusal to get married despite completing her education. The case was filed at Shari'a Court II sitting at Magajin Gari, Kaduna, on July 23, 2026.
Father's complaint
Hamisu, a father of 11 children, told the court through his lawyer, H.B. Debo, that his daughter had obtained a Higher National Diploma (HND) and had attracted several admirers but had not presented any serious suitor for marriage. He asked the court to compel her to find a suitable partner, present him before the court, and allow the marriage process to be completed. The father also alleged that his daughter's mother had influenced their children against him, affecting his relationship with them.
Daughter's response
Fatima, however, told the court that she did not have any serious suitor and that none of the men who had shown interest in her had formally proposed marriage.
Court's decision
The presiding judge, Malam Yakubu Abdullahi, described the case as sensitive because it involved a father and his daughter. The judge said he would meet with both parties separately to better understand the circumstances and provide guidance before making a decision. The court adjourned the matter until August 3 for further proceedings.
