Court Bars Woman From Using Ex-Husband’s Surname 11 Years After Divorce

A Customary Court in Rumuogba, Rivers State, has ruled that Mrs. Kate Ngbor can no longer use her ex-husband’s surname, 11 years after their divorce.

In Suit No: OCC/9/2021, the claimant, Chief Sam Ngbor, sought a court order restraining his former wife from continuing to bear his name.

After hearing arguments from E. O. Erhirhi, counsel to the claimant, and R. U. Egwenre, counsel to the defendant, the court granted the order, stating that Mrs. Kate Ngbor has no legal right to use the name “Ngbor” or “Sam-Ngbor” without the express permission of her ex-husband.

Delivering judgment, the court ruled that Mrs. Ngbor must revert to her maiden name or any other name of her choice, except “Ngbor” or “Sam-Ngbor.” She was also restrained from identifying herself or parading as “Mrs. Kate Ngbor” or “Mrs. Kate Sam-Ngbor” in any capacity.

The ruling, initially issued on June 9, 2014, reaffirmed that the defendant could no longer legally bear her ex-husband’s surname.