According to Channelstv, the marriage, which was billed to take place on July 24 in Abuja, was halted by the
Commission after an investigation. A statement by the Chief Press Officer of the Commission, said that following a tip off, the Commission interrupted the
ceremony and retrieved the minor from the offender's
house and invited all parties involved to the Commission including the groom to be, one Mr. Ibrahim, who had full knowledge that the girl was less than 18 years of age prescribed by Law.
After thorough interrogations, the Commission cited the
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, an offence which is punishable by five years imprisonment or 500,000 naira fine.
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights
Commission, Professor Bem Angwe, while 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.
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 offend the Law but has psychological, social and health implications.
Source: Channels TV
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