Enugu State cracks down on underage marriage with multiple arrests and rescues, ensuring justice and protection for 13-year-old Amarachi.
The Enugu State Government has intensified its fight against underage marriage after uncovering a troubling case involving a 13-year-old girl, Amarachi, who was forced into a marital union in Amufie community, Enugu Ezike.
The incident prompted swift intervention from the Ministry of Gender, Women and Children Affairs, leading to multiple arrests and the removal of the child from an unsafe environment.
The government’s response underscores its commitment to ending underage marriage and protecting vulnerable minors across the state.
According to the Commissioner for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, Hon. Ngozi Eni, the ministry acted after disturbing videos of the ceremony circulated widely on social media.
The footage showed the young girl being handed over in what appeared to be a completed traditional marriage.
Eni explained that her ministry first invited the families and individuals involved—the girl’s parents, the groom’s family, the groom himself, and a matchmaker—to provide explanations.
When none of them honoured the invitation, the government interpreted their refusal as an attempt to hide the truth, prompting the immediate involvement of security agencies.
The commissioner noted that the girl’s age and lack of consent made the case particularly grave.
During initial interviews, Amarachi revealed she had never attended school and did not understand the meaning or responsibilities of marriage.
Her testimony confirmed that the union was forced, making it a direct violation of the Child Rights Law.
The situation, Eni said, demonstrated why the state must continue to act decisively against underage marriage wherever it occurs.
Further investigations uncovered the involvement of a native doctor, identified as Mrs. Patience, who served as the matchmaker between the two families. During questioning, she claimed ignorance of the laws prohibiting child marriage.
Her explanation failed to absolve her of responsibility, as officials clarified that ignorance cannot excuse participation in an illegal act.
Alongside the matchmaker, the groom’s parents were detained for facilitating the arrangement.
The groom’s mother initially tried to defend the union by stating that her son, being an only child, needed to “start a family early.” She later became evasive when confronted with the legal consequences of her actions.
The ministry’s legal team informed the suspects about the provisions of the Child Rights Law, emphasizing the penalties associated with early and forced marriage.
Senior officials also educated them on the health and psychological dangers faced by victims.
These dangers include vesicovaginal fistula (VVF), early cervical complications, emotional trauma, and lifelong social disadvantages.
Eni stressed that the government holds a zero-tolerance policy toward systems or individuals who enable underage marriage, regardless of cultural or personal justifications.
During the rescue operation, officials also discovered a two-year-old child whose parentage was unclear.
The toddler was taken into protective custody while investigations continue to determine whether the child is linked to the illegal marriage or another vulnerable individual.
Both the toddler and Amarachi are now being cared for by the state, receiving medical checks, counselling, and immediate welfare support.
Commissioner Eni explained that the government’s intervention goes beyond arrests.
Amarachi will be placed in a safe environment where she will receive rehabilitation, psychosocial support, and access to formal education.
The ministry will also ensure that the marriage is legally nullified. “Our commitment is not only to rescue but also to rebuild lives,” the commissioner said.
She also commended the collaborative effort of local leaders who worked closely with the ministry.
The Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, Hon. Ogalla, the constituency’s House of Assembly representative, and the Chairman of the Enugu State Civil Service Commission provided swift support that contributed to the success of the operation.
Their involvement demonstrated the importance of community partnership in preventing and responding to incidents of underage marriage.
Going forward, the government plans to strengthen community engagement and public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the legal, ethical, and health implications of child marriage.
The ministry will extend sensitisation programs to rural communities, schools, religious groups, and traditional institutions.
Eni emphasized that ending underage marriage requires collective vigilance and cooperation. She urged the public to report suspicious cases promptly to the appropriate authorities.
The commissioner reiterated that protecting children remains a top priority for the Enugu State Government.
She assured the public that the suspects would face thorough investigation and prosecution to serve as a strong deterrent to anyone contemplating similar actions.
“No child in Enugu State should be denied their right to safety, education, and dignity,” she said.
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