The ongoing divorce case between May Yul-Edochie and her estranged husband, actor Yul Edochie, recently had another hearing. Emeka Ugwuonye, May’s legal counsel, provided an update on the proceedings, outlining the latest developments in the case.
According to Ugwuonye, the court session on February 4 focused on reviewing the outcome of a Compulsory Conference—a legal requirement under Nigerian family law. This conference is designed to encourage divorcing couples to discuss their differences and potentially reach agreements on disputed matters such as property division, child custody, and financial settlements. Both parties, along with their legal representatives, were expected to report back to the court on their progress.
However, during the hearing, it was revealed that the discussions between May and Yul had yet to yield a conclusive agreement. Due to these unresolved issues, the court granted additional time for both parties to continue negotiations and instructed them to hold another conference virtually. The next hearing is scheduled for March, by which time the court expects a report on any agreements reached or confirmation that the discussions have failed. This will help determine the next steps in the legal process.
Ugwuonye emphasized that this update serves as an objective summary of the current state of the case and is not meant to favor any party. He explained that transparency in legal proceedings is important, and this report is intended to clarify the status of the case for the public.
One of the notable aspects of this case is the involvement of Judy Austin, who has been named as a co-respondent. According to Ugwuonye, she is accused of committing adultery with Yul Edochie and falsely presenting herself as his wife despite his existing marriage to May. Under Nigerian law, a man is not legally permitted to marry another woman while still married to his first wife unless the marriage is under customary law that allows polygamy. May’s legal team argues that Yul and Judy’s relationship does not meet this legal standard, making their alleged marriage invalid.
The high-profile nature of this divorce has drawn significant public interest, with many closely following the proceedings. May Yul-Edochie has received widespread support, as her legal battle highlights key issues surrounding marriage, infidelity, and women’s rights within the Nigerian legal system.
As the next hearing approaches in March, all eyes will be on the court to see whether the couple reaches any agreements or if the case proceeds to trial. The outcome of this divorce case could set a precedent for similar legal battles in Nigeria, particularly concerning adultery and false claims of marriage.
Ugwuonye assured the public that further updates would be provided as the case progresses. For now, the court remains focused on ensuring that due process is followed and that justice is served in the ongoing dispute between May and Yul Edochie.