Enugu govt voids underage marriage, orders arrest of parents, groom
The Enugu State Government has nullified an alleged forced marriage involving a teenage girl and an adult man in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, following widespread public outrage on social media.
Commissioner for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, Ngozi Eni, confirmed that the ministry stepped in to halt the illegal marriage after summoning all parties for questioning. When they failed to honour the invitation, the ministry facilitated their arrest. Those apprehended include the girl’s parents, the groom, his parents, and the matchmaker — a native doctor identified as Patience.
According to reports, the teenager revealed she was compelled into the marriage despite having never attended school, adding that she never desired the union. It was further alleged that the groom’s parents arranged the marriage because he is their only son.
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The ministry’s legal team briefed the parties on the Child Rights Law and penalties for child marriage, before handing them over to security agencies for further investigation. The girl, identified as Amarachi, is now in the ministry’s custody, where she will receive protection, education, and empowerment support. The marriage has been officially annulled.
Commissioner Eni also expressed gratitude to the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North LGA for his swift collaboration.
Meanwhile, the Concerned Igbo-Eze North Youth (CINY) commended the government, the Ministry of Gender Affairs and the Nigeria Police Force for prompt action driven by public outcry. The organisation emphasized that the enforcement reinforces the state’s commitment to protecting children and warned that no one involved in child abuse or underage marriage will go unpunished.
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“Let justice take its full course,” CINY declared, urging the public to remain vigilant in exposing harmful practices against minors.
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