- Enugu government steps in to nullify the underage marriage in Enugu Ezike.
- Teenager confirms she was forced into the illegal marriage.
- Parents, groom and matchmaker arrested as authorities intervene.
- Enugu government vows to protect the girl and enforce child-protection laws.
The Enugu State Government has taken decisive action to cancel the underage marriage involving a teenage girl and an adult man in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.
The incident had trended widely on social media, drawing outrage from residents and child-rights advocates. The Commissioner for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, Ngozi Eni, confirmed that the government moved quickly to stop the marriage and protect the girl.
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Eni explained that the ministry had invited the key parties for questioning, but they refused to appear. Following their refusal, the parents of the girl, the parents of the groom, the groom and the matchmaker were arrested. The matchmaker, identified as a native doctor named Patience, claimed she did not know that child marriage was a crime.
The teenage girl reportedly revealed that she was forced into the marriage and had never been to school. She also confirmed that she never wanted the union.
According to the government, the groom was an only son, and his parents reportedly pushed for the marriage to secure a wife for him. The ministry’s legal team briefed all those involved on the Child Rights Law and the penalties attached to child abuse and forced marriage.
Security authorities have now taken over the case for full investigation, while the teenage girl, identified as Amarachi, remains under the ministry’s care. Eni added that the government would provide support, empowerment and education for the girl moving forward.
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The Commissioner also commended the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Local Government for supporting the rescue process.
Meanwhile, the Concerned Igbo-Eze North Youth (CINY) applauded the rapid intervention by the Enugu State Government, Ministry of Gender Affairs and security agencies. The group noted that the arrests were necessary to enforce the law and protect minors.
“This action reinforces the commitment of Enugu State to safeguard the rights of children and send a clear message that no one is above the law,” the group said.
