Damilola, a 28-year-old Nigerian, experienced a marital breakdown after uncovering her husband Isaac's undisclosed Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and realizing that a close friend had concealed the condition from her during their courtship. The marriage, which began after they met through the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, ended in a legal divorce following severe domestic strain and a breakdown of trust.
How did the relationship begin and progress?
Damilola and Fade met during their NYSC service year in 2018, bonding over shared religious values and maintaining their friendship afterwards. Fade subsequently introduced Damilola to Isaac, a male friend she described as single and compatible. The courtship commenced in 2019 following a smooth introduction period.
Throughout their relationship, Damilola noted Isaac's strict adherence to cleanliness and hygiene, which she initially viewed as positive traits. However, he consistently barred her from entering his residence throughout their courtship, a detail she overlooked because the couple practiced abstinence prior to marriage. Following an engagement in 2021, minor behavioral peculiarities emerged, including strict demands regarding wedding preparations and rituals.
What led to the discovery of the condition?
Post-marriage living arrangements exposed severe repetitive routines and intense anxiety cycles. Cooking became a major point of contention as Isaac repeatedly checked gas burners throughout the night, driven by fears of an explosion, which severely disrupted domestic life and sleep.
Six months into the marriage, after persistent frustration, Damilola confronted her husband, prompting his confession regarding his OCD diagnosis. He admitted withholding the information during courtship due to apprehension that it would deter her from marrying him.
How did the intervention of friends and family unfold?
Seeking confidential counsel, Damilola approached Fade, only to discover that the friend had possessed prior knowledge of Isaac's condition. Fade justified the omission by expressing doubt over Damilola's capacity to cope with the diagnosis.
Feeling profoundly betrayed by both parties, Damilola distanced herself from Fade. Concurrently, the domestic challenges proved insurmountable, leading her to inform her family, who supported her decision to exit the marriage. Damilola relocated to her parents' residence in 2022, and the legal dissolution of the marriage was finalized in March 2026.