Outrage in Enugu as authorities stop marriage of 13-Year-old, detain families

The Enugu State Government has arrested the parents of a 13-year-old girl, the groom, his parents, and a matchmaker involved in an underage marriage in Amufie community, Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area.

The Commissioner for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, Hon. Ngozi Eni, said the arrests were made after all those involved ignored an invitation from the ministry. Their refusal to appear raised suspicion, prompting the government to act.

She explained that the marriage had already taken place even though the girl, Amarachi, is only 13 years old and could not give consent or understand what marriage means.

According to Eni, those arrested include the groom’s parents and a native doctor named Mrs. Patience, who acted as the matchmaker. The matchmaker claimed she did not know child marriage is against the law.

Amarachi, now under government protection, told officials she was forced into the marriage and has never attended school. The groom’s mother defended the marriage by saying her son is an only child, but she reportedly went silent when informed that child marriage is a crime.

The ministry’s legal team educated the arrested persons on the Child Rights Law and the dangers of early marriage, including health problems like VVF, cervical cancer, and psychological harm.

Security agencies are now handling the case. Amarachi and a two-year-old child found during the operation—whose mother has not been identified—are both in protective custody.

The commissioner assured that the government will take care of Amarachi, rehabilitate her, and ensure she gets an education. The illegal marriage will also be officially cancelled.

She thanked the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North LGA, Hon. Ogalla, the area’s House of Assembly member, and the Chairman of the Enugu State Civil Service Commission for their support during the operation.