The Enugu State Government has annulled an underage marriage involving 15-year-old Precious Oyiga and a 33-year-old man, Sopuluchukwu Odoh, after disturbing images and reports circulated widely on social media. The incident, which took place in Enugu Ezike, Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, drew strong public outrage and prompted immediate government intervention.
Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, confirmed that the state stepped in as soon as the matter came to its attention. She described the union as “illegal, harmful, and unacceptable,” explaining that the marriage had already been consummated before officials could intervene.
According to her, child marriage is a serious violation of the Enugu State Child Rights Law and exposes the girl to grave risks, including psychological trauma, early pregnancy complications, vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF), cervical cancer, and long-term poverty.
The Commissioner explained that the Ministry had initially invited all parties involved—the girl’s parents, the groom, the groom’s parents, and the matchmaker—to explain how such a marriage occurred. However, none of them honoured the invitation.
Following their refusal, the Ministry, working closely with security agencies, ordered their arrest. Those apprehended include the teenage bride’s parents, the groom’s parents, the groom, and the matchmaker, identified as Mrs. Patience Ndidiamaka, a native doctor popularly known in the community as “Ezenwanyi.”
Officials described the arrest as necessary to protect Precious and ensure proper investigation of the case.
In a protected interview with the Ministry, Precious opened up about her experience. She said she was forced into the marriage and never consented to becoming a wife. She also revealed that she had never attended school, a situation that made her more vulnerable to exploitation.
Her statement confirmed fears that the marriage was arranged without her permission. Officials said the girl appeared frightened but relieved after being removed from the environment where the marriage took place.
The groom’s mother, Mrs. Ngozi Odoh, told government officials that her son was an only child. According to her, this motivated her to “secure a wife” for him. However, she could not provide any reasonable explanation for choosing a minor, particularly after being informed of the legal consequences of child marriage.
The matchmaker, Mrs. Ndidiamaka, claimed she did not know that marrying off a child was a crime. The Ministry’s legal team and child protection experts then educated her and others on the provisions of the Child Rights Law.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Nkechi Ewoh, led a sensitisation session for all arrested parties. She explained the dangers associated with child marriage, including early pregnancy, childbirth complications, and long-term emotional damage.
Mrs. Ewoh also stressed that child marriage prevents girls from getting an education, limits their future opportunities, and exposes them to lifelong suffering. She told the group that ignorance of the law is not an excuse and that child marriage is considered a form of abuse and gender-based violence.
Following the arrests, all the individuals involved were handed over to security agencies for full investigation and prosecution. The Enugu State Government said it will closely follow the case to ensure justice is served and to send a strong message that no one is above the law.
Officials highlighted that anyone who participates in or supports child marriage in the state will face legal consequences.
The Ministry has placed Precious under protective custody at the Child Development Department, where she will receive shelter, counselling, and medical attention. During the intervention, a two-year-old baby, whose mother has not yet been identified, was also found. The baby was taken into protective care pending further investigation.
Commissioner Enih announced that the government will take full responsibility for Precious’ rehabilitation and education. She said the girl will be enrolled in school and will receive long-term support to help her rebuild her life.
Mrs. Enih used the opportunity to reassure the public that the Enugu State Government remains committed to ending child abuse, exploitation, and harmful traditional practices. She said the government will continue to respond quickly to reports of child marriage and ensure that vulnerable children are protected.
She urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to prioritise the well-being of children and to report suspicious activities to authorities.
Child marriage remains a major issue in some parts of Nigeria despite laws prohibiting it. According to UNICEF, millions of Nigerian girls are married before the age of 18. Poverty, cultural practices, lack of education, and gender inequality are major factors contributing to the problem.
The Child Rights Act, passed in 2003, sets the minimum age for marriage at 18. Enugu State is among the states that have adopted the law and criminalised early marriage. However, enforcement remains a challenge in rural communities where some traditions still encourage early marriage.
Health experts warn that child brides face serious risks, including obstructed labour, which can lead to VVF, a painful condition that results in constant leakage of urine. They also face higher risks of maternal death and complications during childbirth.
Social workers say girls who marry early are more likely to drop out of school, remain poor, and experience domestic violence.
Commissioner Enih praised the Chairman of Igbo-Eze North Local Government Area, Hon. Ogbonna Ogallah, for providing strong support during the rescue operation. She also commended the Member representing the constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Clifford Nnaemeka Obe, and the Chairman of the Enugu State Civil Service Commission, Mr. Robinson Odo, for their commitment and cooperation.
She said the swift response from these leaders shows that the government is united in protecting children and ending harmful practices.
The Enugu State Government said it will continue to monitor Precious’ welfare and ensure that she begins her journey toward education and recovery. Officials also said the case should serve as a warning to families, traditional matchmakers, and community leaders who may attempt to arrange underage marriages.
Commissioner Enih urged community members to support government efforts by reporting cases of child abuse and promoting the rights of children.
