Commission Stops 40-Year-Old's Planned Marriage To 13-Year-Old

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has stopped the planned marriage of a 40-year-old man to a 13-year-old primary five girl at the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) Primary School in Abuja. The marriage was halted by the commission after an immediate investigation.

Following a tip-off, the commission swung into action and took the minor away from the man's house and invited all parties involved to the commission, including the man, one Mr. Ibrahim.

After interrogation, the commission cited relevant laws to back its decision to stop the marriage including sections 21, 22, 23 of the Child Rights Act 2003 which prohibits child marriage or betrothal and also punishes the offence with five years imprisonment or an option of N500,000 fine.

The Executive Secretary of the commission, Professor Bem Angwe, while further referring the matter to the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command for prosecution, also expressed the determination of the commission to ensure the implementation of the Child Rights Act and its enforcement against all persons irrespective of their status or religious belief.

Against this backdrop, the Executive Secretary enjoined parents and guardians to be vigilant and ensure that their children and wards are not exposed to early marriage which does not only violate the law, but also has psychological, social and health implications.