A 23-year-old Lusaka woman has been granted a protective order by the Matero Local Court against her 25-year-old ex-husband, who has refused to move on in peace.
Rhoda Daka sought the order due to Joseph Njobvu’s persistent harassment, unwanted visits, and baseless accusations of promiscuity, which included him questioning the paternity of their children during their illegitimate marriage.
Daka, from George compound, testified about the distress and fear caused by Njobvu’s actions, stating that his uninvited presence and verbal abuse not only undermined her character but also threatened her safety.
It was revealed that their three-year marriage ended due to constant disagreements and a lack of mutual support.
Daka also revealed that Njobvu failed to financially support their children and did not pay the traditional lobola despite them living together, which she said made their relationship “lack legitimacy and stability.”
After the divorce, Rhoda found support and stability from a new partner who seems to have swept her feet and left the sorry sight of of toxic relationship which has the smell of the Garden Compound sewers.
However, Njobvu continued to disrupt her life, intruding on her private moments and causing her significant distress.
She expressed concern that his actions could jeopardise her new marriage.
In his defense, Njobvu stated that he was deeply affected by Daka’s refusal to acknowledge his parental bond with their children, despite what he believed were strong physical resemblances.
He also expressed frustration over perceived barriers preventing him from contacting his children and contributing to their upbringing.
Magistrate Lewis Mumba expressed concern over Rhoda’s situation, noting that at 23, she should be focused on university rather than the responsibilities of being a mother of two and entering another marriage.
The court issued a strict protective order, mandating that Njobvu maintain a distance of at least 100 meters from Rhoda at all times.
“If you wish to spend time with your children, you are to communicate with their mother and arrange a neutral location for visitation, you are not to approach her residence or engage in any behaviour that violates the protective order,” declared the magistrate.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba July 28, 2025
