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In the heart of Bayelsa, Nigeria, the controversial union of a 4-year-old girl to a 54-year-old man in the Akeddei community has ignited a fierce debate. The parents of the young girl, along with the groom, the community's traditional ruler, and other participants, faced scrutiny before the Bayelsa Government's Gender Response Initiative Team (GRIT) following public outcry.

The accused parties, including Mr. Morris Aboma (the father), Mr. Akpos Napoleon (the groom), and Chief Moneyman Binabo (the traditional ruler), defended the alleged marriage before the government team. They insisted that the ceremony was not a marriage but a traditional practice known as "Koripamo," designed to save the child's life.

According to the community representatives, "Koripamo" involves a symbolic payment by a man if a girl child is frequently unwell, aiming to ward off potential illness. They stressed that the rite does not bind the girl to the man in marriage, and she is free to choose her spouse when she reaches a marriageable age.

Despite the explanation, concerns were raised about the elaborate celebration surrounding the event, with the paramount ruler expressing surprise at the demand for a grand ceremony.

After a thorough deliberation, Dr. Dise Ogbise-Goddy, Chairman of GRIT, assured that the Bayelsa State Government would review the situation in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children, and Social Development. The outcome will reflect the government's commitment to child protection and address the delicate balance between cultural practices and contemporary norms.