Amidst controversy, the Minister of Women Affairs petitions the Inspector General of Police to halt the Niger State Speaker's plan to marry off 100 orphaned girls. The move is met with legal challenge and calls for investigation into the girls' consent and age. Orphan marriage initiative sparks nationwide debate.
Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has taken a bold stance against the planned marriage of 100 orphaned girls by the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji.
She has petitioned the Inspector General of Police and sought a court injunction to halt the marriage ceremony, citing concerns about the girls' welfare and legality. Kennedy-Ohanenye emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to ensure the girls' consent, ages, and the legality of the marriages.
She underscored the importance of girl-child education and empowerment, stating that the ministry would provide support for education and skill training to enable the girls to build their lives independently.
Kennedy-Ohanenye warned of legal action if the Speaker proceeded contrary to their intervention, highlighting the protection of children's rights under the Child Rights Act.
