The Enugu State Government has taken decisive action to nullify an illegal underage marriage and arrest all parties involved, including the parents of the teenage bride and the groom. The incident, which sparked widespread public outcry, occurred in the Enugu Ezike community of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
Government Intervention and Arrests
Following reports circulating on social media about a forced marriage, the Enugu State Commissioner for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, Ngozi Eni, confirmed the government's intervention on Thursday. The Commissioner revealed that she had initially invited the involved parties to explain why they orchestrated the marriage of a teenager, fully aware of its detrimental effects.
When the individuals failed to appear before the ministry, Commissioner Eni authorized their arrest. The arrests included the girl's parents, the groom's parents, the groom himself, and the matchmaker, identified as a native doctor named Patience.
Victim's Testimony and Cultural Pressures
During the investigation, the teenager reportedly stated that she was coerced into the marriage and had been prevented from attending school. She explicitly confirmed that she never consented to the union.
It was also revealed that the groom is an only son, which was cited as the reason his parents felt compelled to secure a wife for him. Meanwhile, the matchmaker, Patience, claimed she was unaware that arranging a marriage for an underage girl constituted a crime.
Legal Repercussions and Empowerment for the Victim
The legal team from the ministry educated all parties on the relevant laws, including the Child Right Law, and the severe penalties associated with child marriage. All involved individuals have been handed over to security authorities for further investigation.
The rescued teenager, Amarachi, will remain under the care of the ministry. Commissioner Eni assured that the state government will take necessary measures to nurture and empower Amarachi through education, ensuring she has a brighter future. The illegal marriage has been officially nullified.
Commissioner Eni also thanked the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Local Government for his swift response to the incident.
Community Praise and Call for Justice
The group Concerned Igbo-Eze North Youth (CINY) praised the swift response from the Enugu State Government, the Ministry of Gender Affairs, and the Nigeria Police Force. They noted that the arrests were a direct result of public outrage.
In a statement, CINY said, "This action reaffirms the state's commitment to upholding the rights of children and enforcing laws against child abuse, child marriage, and the violation of minors." The group emphasized that no one is above the law and urged continued public vigilance to protect children. They concluded, "Let justice take its full course, and may this serve as a deterrent to all who engage in or enable such practices."
