An Accra High Court has delivered its ruling in a high-profile divorce case involving Mrs Joana Quaye and her former husband, Richard Nii Armah Quaye, significantly reducing her financial claims.
Mrs Quaye had filed for divorce and sought a financial settlement of GH¢50 million (approximately $4.5 million), among other reliefs.
However, the presiding judge, Justice Justin Kofi Dorgu, sitting as an Additional High Court Judge, dismissed the claim for the amount, describing it as lacking evidentiary support.
In his ruling, the judge noted that the concept of large financial awards in divorce cases must be carefully considered in modern times, where many women are financially independent.
Justice Dorgu emphasised that marriage should not be treated as a financial venture.
“Marriage is not an investment, and no ordinary investment would yield such a return over 10 or 20 years,” he stated, explaining why the GH¢50 million claim was deemed excessive and unsupported.
The court also highlighted that Mrs Quaye had already benefited from a property settlement, including a one-third share of the matrimonial home.
Additionally, the court ordered that Mr Quaye continue to cater for the children’s education and healthcare needs, while also addressing the petitioner’s mobility requirements.
In further justification of the reduced award, the judge noted that Mrs Quaye is gainfully employed and has experience in the same business sector as her former husband.
He suggested that her exposure to the Quick Credit business could position her for future financial success.
The court also observed that she remains capable of rebuilding her life independently, including the possibility of remarriage if she so chooses.
In the end, the court awarded Mrs Quaye GH¢300,000 as financial relief—far below the initial claim.
Justice Dorgu stated that the decision was also intended to discourage divorce petitions motivated by expectations of large financial gains.
Source:
www.zionfelix.net
