Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has taken legal action to halt a controversial plan by the Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkin-Daji. Sarkin-Daji had announced his intention to sponsor the wedding of 100 girls, some orphaned by insurgency, in his constituency.
The Minister strongly condemned the plan, stating it violated child protection laws. She highlighted the Child’s Rights Act and the importance of prioritizing the girls’ education and future prospects.
“These children must be considered,” Kennedy-Ohanenye said. “The future of the children to come out of their marriage must be considered.”
The Ministry has filed a court injunction to stop the weddings and launched an investigation to verify the girls’ ages and consent.
Kennedy-Ohanenye outlined an alternative plan, focusing on education and vocational training for the girls.
“We are going to educate the children,” she declared. “Those who do not want to go to school, we will train them in a skill.”
The Minister warned of legal consequences if Sarkin-Daji proceeds with his plan, stating a “serious legal battle” would ensue.
